A rare outbreak of Diphtheria has struck Australia, marking the first serious resurgence in almost 50 years. Public health officials sound a warning and are closely monitoring the situation, urging people to keep a close eye on it: they need to make sure their own vaccines are current.
An acute bacterial infection, such as diphtheria, can lead to death. It is mainly confined to the respiratory system (most notably throat and nose); hence, airborne particles such as respiratory droplets are transmitted along as one coughs or sneezing after the bacteria take root. If not immediately, it goes straight into your system.
The Symptoms of Diphtheria
It may start off as a low-profile illness and soon develop into an incipient crisis. Common signs include:
- Sore throat and hoarseness.
- Fever and chills.
- Swollen glands in the neck.
- Weakness and fatigue.
- A dense, grey or white membrane in the throat.
In severe cases, the bacteria may produce toxins that can cause things like trouble breathing, damaged tissue in the heart, paralysis of nerves, and, unless cured, death.
How It Matters
The recent resurgence of diphtheria in Australia is unexpected, because the disease had, for decades, been manageable due to extensive immunisation campaigns undertaken to cover all the bases. Fewer people being vaccinated in some communities, or more individuals travelling internationally, can trigger the resurgence of such infections, experts said. Prevention: We Need
Vaccination
Vaccination is the best defence against diphtheria. The vaccine is usually given as a combo immunisation in the context of DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) when a child is vaccinated, and booster doses are recommended in adolescence and adulthood. Health officials are urging people, especially those who haven’t had booster shots in years, to get vaccinated.
Herd immunity is vital to containing outbreaks. Vaccination is a terrific bulwark, but basic hygiene, including frequent hand washing, covering one’s mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding contact with those who are infected, may help contain the spread. Treatment
Options
Diphtheria is treatable, especially if caught early. Therapy typically involves diphtheria antitoxin to neutralise the toxin as well as antibiotics, like penicillin or erythromycin, that can kill the bacteria. Patients are separated to reduce the spread, and close contacts are able to get preventive antibiotics and booster shots.
Public Health Action
Australian authorities are also following people around, isolating any confirmed cases (and increasing campaigns to promote knowledge so the outbreak can be stopped). To stop infection, hospital and clinic staff nationwide have kept a high alert for suspected cases.
It’s a reminder that almost eradicated diseases that are often treated as nearly eradicated will indeed rear their ugly head again if you are not watching for prevention. The three major things that hold back diphtheria are continuing to be public awareness, vaccination and early treatment.
