In 2022, Western Europe faced a major diphtheria outbreak among refugees, with 363 cases across 10 countries. Genomic analysis revealed transmission along migration routes, primarily from Afghanistan and Syria. Rapid data sharing and interventions curbed the spread, but circulating strains demand ongoing vigilance and updated vaccinations.
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Context:
Recent research has confirmed that Western Europe is facing its most serious diphtheria outbreak in 70 years, a situation that began in 2022.
It is a severe, highly contagious bacterial infection caused by toxin-producing strains of Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
The bacterium primarily attacks the respiratory system. It releases a powerful toxin that kills tissue, leading to the formation of a thick, grey membrane (a pseudomembrane) in the throat. It can grow to obstruct the airway, making it incredibly difficult to breathe or swallow.
The toxin can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, where it can damage vital organs. It frequently causes myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle), damages nerves, and can lead to kidney failure.
Transmission
Respiratory Droplets: The most common mode of transmission is person-to-person through respiratory droplets expelled during coughing or sneezing by an infected individual.
Direct Contact: The bacteria can also infect the skin, causing open sores or ulcers (cutaneous diphtheria). The infection can then spread through direct physical contact with these infected lesions.
Treatment and Prevention
Diphtheria Antitoxin (DAT) neutralizes any toxin that has not yet bound to the body's cells, preventing further damage to organs.
Diphtheria is an entirely vaccine-preventable disease. The DTaP vaccine (covering Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis) is highly effective and a core component of routine national immunization programs globally.
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Diphtheria: Understanding the Disease
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Which organism is the cause of diphtheria? A) Streptococcus B) Staphylococcus C) Corynebacterium D) Mycobacterium Answer: C Explanation: Diphtheria is a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. This bacterium infects the throat and nose. The hallmark of diphtheria is the formation of a thick coating (pseudomembrane) in the nose and throat, which can make it difficult to breathe and swallow. The bacteria also produce a toxin that can damage other organs, including the heart and nerves. |
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