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Diphtheria, a severe and perilous bacterial disease caused primarily by toxin-producing strains of Corynebacterium bacteria, has cast a dark shadow over Nigeria with a recent outbreak. In this exploration, we delve into the intricacies of diphtheria, its causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and reveal a surprising “Did You Know” fact. Additionally, we bring to light the latest alarming statistics on this outbreak, as reported by UNICEF.
Understanding Diphtheria: Causes and Symptoms
Diphtheria is a severe infectious disease that results from the invasion of the body by toxin-producing Corynebacterium bacteria. These toxins primarily affect the upper airways and can occasionally manifest on the skin. The insidious nature of diphtheria is exemplified by the formation of a membrane within the windpipe, obstructing breathing and posing the risk of suffocation. Furthermore, the disease can wreak havoc on the heart and nervous system, leading to severe complications.
Diphtheria typically presents with symptoms resembling laryngitis, pharyngitis, or tonsillitis, often accompanied by the formation of a membrane covering the tonsils, pharynx, and/or nose. Notably, approximately a quarter of cases may develop myocarditis, a condition affecting the heart.
Transmission and Spread
The ease with which diphtheria spreads among individuals is a cause for concern. It can be transmitted through direct contact, respiratory droplets released during coughing or sneezing, and even contaminated clothing and objects. Infected individuals can remain contagious for up to two weeks without treatment, with rare instances of extended contagious periods lasting over six weeks. In some cases, chronic carriers may shed the bacteria for six months or more. It is also possible to contract diphtheria more than once.
Alarming Statistics
According to UNICEF, as of July 2023, Nigeria has reported a staggering 3,850 suspected cases of diphtheria, with 1,387 cases confirmed. The outbreak has resulted in a devastating case fatality rate (CFR) of 8.7%. Notably, this outbreak has had a significant impact on regions such as Kano, Yobe, Katsina, Lagos, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Sokoto, and Zamfara, collectively accounting for 98.0% of suspected cases.
Nigeria is currently grappling with a second wave of the diphtheria outbreak, following a first wave that extended from epidemiological week 52, 2022 (1 January 2023) to week 20, 2023 (22 May 2023). There is an alarming increase in the affected population, with a surge in the number of confirmed cases and related deaths reported in epidemiological weeks 31-33. There is an elevated risk of transmission, with clusters and outbreaks reported in newly affected Local Government Areas (LGAs).
This dire situation underscores the urgent need for widespread vaccination, improved healthcare infrastructure, and public awareness to combat the diphtheria outbreak in Nigeria. Vigilance and timely intervention can save lives and prevent further spread of this deadly disease.
Preventing Diphtheria
- Childhood Immunization: Follow childhood immunization schedule, which recommends three doses of the pentavalent vaccine (including diphtheria toxoid) at the 6th, 10th, and 14th week of life.
- Early Vaccination: Begin the vaccination series at 6 weeks of age, as advocated by the World Health Organization, with three doses of diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccines in the first year of life.
- Booster Doses: Ensure long-term protection by administering three booster doses of diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine during childhood and adolescence.
- Healthcare Check-ups: Regularly schedule child check-ups with a healthcare provider to track your child’s vaccination status and receive guidance on vaccination schedules.
- Community Awareness: Promote awareness about the importance of diphtheria vaccination within your community, encouraging parents to get their children vaccinated on time.
- Hygiene Practices: Emphasize good hygiene practices, such as handwashing, to prevent the spread of respiratory infections, including diphtheria.
- Isolation and Treatment: If someone in your household or community is diagnosed with diphtheria, follow isolation protocols and seek immediate medical treatment for affected individuals to prevent the disease from spreading.
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest vaccination recommendations and guidelines from health authorities to ensure your family’s protection against diphtheria.
Did you Know?
Did you know that Kano, the second most populous state in Nigeria, located in the north of the country, has the highest number of diphtheria cases, with a total of 1,816 cases?