Nigeria is experiencing an outbreak of diphtheria, with Kano state in the Northwestern region of the country at the epicenter.
Given the highly contagious nature of the disease, it has spread to almost all the states of the federation, including Enugu state; this outbreak is a serious public health concern we must fight with knowledge, a change of attitude, and good practice of embracing vaccination.
In Enugu, a 6-year-old girl was diagnosed with diphtheria, but, for timely intervention, she survived the disease.
Diphtheria is a highly contagious vaccine-preventable disease that spreads between people mainly by direct contact or through the air via respiratory droplets; it is caused by exotoxin-producing Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
This disease can affect all unvaccinated individuals of any age; however, unimmunized children are at high risk. Children under 5 are particularly vulnerable to severe complications, while the 5-14 year old age group often bears the brunt of the disease.
Diphtheria symptoms in children typically appear 2-5 days after exposure. Symptoms often come on gradually, beginning with a sore throat and fever; enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, which can lead to a “bull’s neck” appearance, and in severe cases, a thick grey or white patch at the back of the throat. This is caused by a toxin produced by the bacteria, which also blocks the airways and makes breathing and swallowing difficult.
Other symptoms include a runny nose, barking cough, nausea, vomiting, chills, and headache.
Diphtheria is treatable if identified early. Apart from the symptoms, it is primarily diagnosed by laboratory tests wherein the bacteria are cultured and tested for toxigenic C. diphtheria.
It is treated by administering diphtheria antitoxin (DAT) to neutralize the toxin as well as antibiotics to kill the bacteria, thereby reducing complications and mortality.
To curb the spread of diphtheria, a multi-pronged approach is advised; vaccination, which is a preventive measure, and the following;
- Good hygiene, like frequent hand washing
- Early diagnosis and treatment
- Isolation of infected individuals to prevent further transmission to others
- Administration of prescribed antibiotics
- Community Education
Let’s join hands to kick out diphtheria from our community; allow your children to be fully vaccinated, and if symptoms are seen, visit the nearest healthcare centre as early detection saves lives.
