Diphtheria: What you need to know to stay safe

Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that poses a significant public health risk, particularly in areas with low immunization rates.

Caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, this disease primarily targets the respiratory system but can also affect the skin, eyes, and genitals.

In severe cases, diphtheria can lead to life-threatening complications, underscoring the importance of timely prevention and treatment.

What is Diphtheria?

The term “diphtheria” originates from the Greek word for “skin,” referring to the thick membrane that forms in the throat during infection.

French physician Pierre Bretonneau first named the disease “diphtérie” in 1826.

Diphtheria is an acute bacterial infection that affects the upper respiratory tract and releases a toxin that can spread through the body, impacting the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

Causes and symptoms

Diphtheria spreads primarily through respiratory droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze.

It can also be transmitted via contaminated objects or direct contact with infected wounds. Individuals at higher risk include those with incomplete vaccinations, weakened immune systems, and those living in overcrowded areas.

Symptoms typically appear between two to five days after exposure and include:

• Fever and chills
• Sore throat and difficulty swallowing
• Runny nose with a foul-smelling discharge
• Swollen lymph nodes (bull neck)
• Hoarseness and breathing difficulties
• Thick greyish-white membrane in the throat, which can obstruct airways

Severe cases may lead to complications such as myocarditis (heart inflammation), kidney damage, nervous system impairment, and respiratory failure.

How it spreads

Diphtheria is highly contagious and spreads through:

1. Respiratory droplets – Inhalation of bacteria from an infected person’s cough or sneeze.

2. Direct contact – Touching open sores or ulcers of an infected individual.

3. Contaminated objects – Exposure to items such as clothing, towels, or utensils used by an infected person.

4. Asymptomatic carriers – Individuals who carry the bacteria without symptoms but can still transmit it.

The Threat of Diphtheria in Nigeria

Nigeria has witnessed a resurgence of diphtheria in recent years, with outbreaks reported in states such as Kano, Yobe, Katsina, and Lagos.

Declining vaccination rates, misinformation, and limited healthcare access have contributed to this resurgence.

A significant disease outbreak has been recorded in Lagos State, with confirmed cases emerging at King’s College Annexe in Victoria Island.

In response to the situation, the Lagos State Government swiftly initiated an emergency vaccination campaign to contain the spread of the infection among students and staff.

Authorities are working closely with health officials to ensure that all affected individuals receive appropriate medical care while implementing preventive measures to curb further transmission.

The government has also urged residents to remain vigilant and adhere to health guidelines.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has responded by intensifying disease surveillance, supplying antitoxin treatments, and promoting vaccination awareness.

However, challenges remain in reaching at-risk populations, especially in rural communities.

Who is most at risk?

Certain groups are more vulnerable to diphtheria, including:

Unvaccinated individuals – Children and adults who have not received the diphtheria vaccine.

People in crowded environments – Those living in congested housing conditions.

Individuals with poor sanitation – Those in areas with inadequate hygiene and sanitation.

Healthcare workers and caregivers – Those exposed to infected patients.

Prevention measures

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent diphtheria. Nigeria’s routine immunization schedule includes three doses of the pentavalent vaccine, administered at:

6 weeks of age

10 weeks of age

14 weeks of age

Booster doses are also recommended to maintain immunity. The NCDC urges parents to ensure children receive all scheduled vaccinations, healthcare workers to identify cases early, and close contacts of infected individuals to undergo preventive antibiotic treatment.

Treatment of Diphtheria

Diphtheria requires immediate medical intervention and hospitalization. Standard treatment includes:

• Diphtheria antitoxin to neutralize the bacterial toxin.
• Antibiotics (such as erythromycin or penicillin) to eliminate the infection.
• Supportive care – Oxygen therapy, IV fluids, and, in severe cases, mechanical ventilation.
• Isolation to prevent further spread.