Diphtheria is a serious infectious disease that poses significant risks, including the potential for fatality. This article explores what diphtheria is, how dangerous it can be, and effective measures to prevent its spread.
1. What is Diphtheria?
Diphtheria, known as “diphtérie” in French, was first named by French physician Pierre Bretonneau in 1826. The term originates from the Greek word for “skin,” referring to the thick, whitish membrane that forms in the throat during infection. In English, the disease is referred to as “diphtheria.”
Diphtheria is an acute infectious disease that primarily affects the upper respiratory tract. It is caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which not only damages the throat but also produces a toxin that spreads throughout the body. This toxin can severely impact the cardiovascular system, nervous system, and other vital organs, posing a serious threat to life.
The diphtheria bacterium was first discovered in 1883.
2. Causes and Symptoms of Diphtheria
As mentioned, diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. The bacterium spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted through contaminated personal items or contact with wounds of infected individuals. Several factors can increase the risk of contracting Corynebacterium diphtheriae infection:
– Incomplete vaccination, including missing booster doses.
– Weakened immune system.
– Living in crowded conditions that facilitate the spread of bacteria.
– Traveling to or residing in areas experiencing diphtheria outbreaks.
Symptoms of diphtheria typically appear within 2 to 5 days after exposure to the bacteria. Common signs include:
– Mild fever, usually below 38°C (100.4°F), though young children may experience sudden high fevers.
– Chills, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
– Sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and swollen, red lymph nodes in the neck.
– The formation of a thick, adherent coating on the throat’s mucous membranes and tonsils.
– Nasal discharge, sometimes tinged with blood.
– In some cases, shallow skin ulcers may develop. These lesions are usually painless but slow to heal.
If the diphtheria toxin spreads throughout the body, it can cause severe complications. These may include respiratory distress, kidney damage, heart problems, and nervous system impairment.
A dense grayish membrane covering the throat and tonsils.
3. How Dangerous is Diphtheria?
Diphtheria is a potentially fatal infectious disease if not treated promptly. In developing countries, the mortality rate from diphtheria can be as high as 10%, while in developed nations, it is around 5%. Even with treatment, the disease can still be deadly, particularly for children under five and adults over 40 years old.
The danger of Corynebacterium diphtheriae infection lies in the toxin produced by the bacteria. This toxin can cause significant damage to various organs, leading to complications such as:
– Airway Obstruction: The thick coating in the throat and tonsils can narrow the airway, causing breathing difficulties and potentially suffocation.
– Kidney Damage: The diphtheria toxin can lead to acute kidney failure.
– Myocarditis: The toxin can enter the bloodstream and reach the heart, causing inflammation of the heart muscle and heart failure.
– Nervous System Damage: The toxin can paralyze the nervous system, resulting in muscle stiffness, difficulty swallowing, and respiratory failure.
– Pneumonia: This occurs when the bacteria spread to the lungs or when secretions from the upper respiratory tract are aspirated into the lungs.
4. Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention of Diphtheria
4.1. Diagnosis
Early and accurate diagnosis of diphtheria is crucial for effective treatment and preventing complications. If diphtheria is suspected, immediate medical attention is necessary. Diagnosis is typically based on clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. Key diagnostic methods include:
– Blood Tests: To check for increased white blood cell count and inflammatory markers.
– Bacterial Culture: Throat swabs, nasal discharge, or skin lesions are cultured to identify Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
– Electrocardiogram (ECG): This may be performed to assess the impact of the toxin on the heart.
4.2. Treatment
Diphtheria requires immediate hospitalization. Treatment includes:
– Antibiotics: Bactericidal antibiotics such as penicillin or erythromycin are used to eliminate the bacteria.
– Antitoxins: Injected into the body to neutralize the toxin produced by the bacteria.
– Supportive Care: Depending on the patient’s condition, additional treatments such as oxygen therapy or intravenous fluids may be necessary.
– Isolation: To prevent the spread of the disease, patients must be isolated in a separate room.
Patients need to be closely monitored during and after treatment to manage any potential complications.
The type of antibiotic used to treat diphtheria.
4.3. Prevention
There are five key preventive measures to reduce the risk of diphtheria:
– Vaccination: Diphtheria vaccines are often combined with vaccines for other diseases such as pertussis, tetanus, polio, pneumonia, and meningitis. At TCI Vaccination Center, you can choose from a range of combination vaccines. Children receive five doses at 2, 4, 5, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years of age, while adults should receive booster shots every 10 years.
– Personal Hygiene: Regular hand washing with antibacterial soap is essential. Additionally, maintain the habit of using personal items separately and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
– Boosting Immunity: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate rest help strengthen the immune system.
– Isolation of Infected Individuals: Anyone diagnosed with diphtheria should be isolated to prevent spreading. Close contacts should be tested and may need preventive treatment.
– Travel Precautions: Check the disease status of your destination and consider vaccination before traveling.
In summary, diphtheria is a dangerous infectious disease with serious potential complications. Vaccination and timely treatment are key to preventing and managing the disease effectively. Make sure to follow the recommended vaccination schedule and seek medical care if you suspect exposure to diphtheria.
