Overview of Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the respiratory system but can also affect the skin. This disease is characterised by the formation of a thick covering in the throat which can lead to breathing difficulties and if untreated can be life threatening. Diphtheria spreads through respiratory droplets and close contact with an infected person.

Types of Diphtheria

1. Respiratory Diphtheria: Affects the throat and nose causing a thick coating that can obstruct the airway, leading to breathing difficulty.

2. Cutaneous Diphtheria: This type affects the skin causing open sores or ulcers that can become infected.

3. Rare Forms: Though rare diphtheria can also affect the eyes or genital region requiring immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of Diphtheria

• Sore Throat: A painful irritated throat often accompanied by difficulty swallowing.
• Swollen Neck: Known as (bull neck,) swelling can make breathing difficult.
• Grayish Coating: A thick coating forms in the throat or nose making it hard to breathe.
• Fever and Fatigue: Fever and extreme tiredness can signal infection.
• Difficulty Breathing: A result of the throat becoming obstructed.
• Skin Sores: For cutaneous diphtheria painful skin sores or ulcers are a sign.

Causes of Diphtheria

• Corynebacterium Diphtheriae: The bacteria that cause diphtheria primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets or contact with infected surfaces.
• Infected Individuals: Diphtheria spreads when someone coughs, sneezes or makes contact with infected skin lesions or objects.

Complications in Diphtheria

• Breathing Obstruction: The bacteria produce a toxin that can cause a thick coating in the throat, obstructing airflow.
• Heart Damage: Diphtheria can lead to myocarditis (heart inflammation) which can result in long term heart issues.
• Nerve Damage: Nerve damage from toxins can cause paralysis especially in severe cases.
• Kidney Failure: In some rare cases kidney function can be compromised.
• Sepsis: A severe infection that spreads through the bloodstream threatening vital organs.

Risk Factors of Diphtheria

• Unvaccinated Individuals: The most vulnerable group to contract diphtheria.
• Poor Hygiene: Not washing hands regularly or avoiding contact with infected individuals.
• Crowded Environments: Places like schools, hospitals or refugee camps where people are in close proximity.
• Weakened Immune Systems: Individuals with compromised immune systems, like those with chronic illnesses are at higher risk.

Preventions of Diphtheria

• Vaccination: The most effective preventive measure against diphtheria is the DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis) vaccine, which should be administered in childhood and boosted in adulthood.
• Good Hygiene: Regular hand washing and covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing can help reduce spread.
• Avoid Close Contact: If you are sick limit contact with others especially in crowded places.
• Booster Shots: Adults should get a booster every 10 years to maintain immunity.