Diphtheria
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that primarily affects the throat and nose. While it’s a rare disease today, thanks to vaccines, it can still be life-threatening if not treated quickly. In South Africa, diphtheria is part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule, but outbreaks can still happen, especially in communities where people are not vaccinated.
What is Diphtheria?
Diphtheria is caused by a bacteria known as Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The bacteria release toxins that damage tissues in the body, leading to the formation of a thick, grey layer at the back of the throat, which can make it hard to breathe. Diphtheria can also cause other complications, such as heart and nerve problems.
Symptoms of Diphtheria
The symptoms of diphtheria usually start 2 to 5 days after exposure to the bacteria. Common signs include:
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Difficulty breathing
- Thick grey coating on the throat and tonsils
In severe cases, the toxins produced by the bacteria can spread to the heart and nervous system, causing damage that can be life-threatening.
How is Diphtheria Treated?
Diphtheria is treated with antibiotics and antitoxins, which help to neutralize the toxins produced by the bacteria. However, treatment needs to begin as soon as possible, because the longer the bacteria are in the body, the more damage they can cause. Even with treatment, diphtheria can still lead to serious complications or death, especially in people who are not vaccinated.
Prevention: The Diphtheria Vaccine
The good news is that diphtheria is preventable through vaccination. In South Africa, the diphtheria vaccine is part of the DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) vaccine, which is given to children as part of the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI). The first dose is usually given at 6 weeks old, followed by additional doses at 10 weeks, 14 weeks, and booster shots later in childhood.
Vaccination not only protects individuals from diphtheria but also helps to prevent outbreaks by promoting herd immunity. When enough people are vaccinated, the disease has a harder time spreading, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated, such as babies or people with certain health conditions.
Is Diphtheria Still a Threat in South Africa?
Although rare, diphtheria outbreaks can still occur, especially in areas with low vaccination coverage. In recent years, South Africa has experienced small outbreaks of diphtheria, reminding us of the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates.
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) monitors diphtheria cases in South Africa and works to ensure that any cases are quickly treated and contained to prevent the disease from spreading.
