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Public Health Solutions
District Health Department
995 East Hwy 33, Ste 1
Crete, NE 68333-2562
888.310.0565
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Diphtheria
Background
Diphtheria is caused by a bacteria that releases a toxin, which in turn causes the illness. There are two types of diphtheria - respiratory and cutaneous (skin). Respiratory diphtheria has been extremely rare in the United States (0-5 cases per year), thanks to a rigorous vaccination effort. Before vaccines were available, children were most at risk of developing symptoms. Now in the US diphtheria affects primarily adults.
Transmission
Diphtheria is spread through intimate respiratory contact or direct person-to-person physical contact. Diphtheria can be carried and transmitted by people who do not exhibit symptoms.
Symptoms
Sore throat with low-grade fever. Thick coverings can also develop on the soft tissue of the tonsils, pharynx, and nose, causing neck swelling in severe cases. There are also potential complications, including myocarditis (inflammed heart), polyneuritis (inflammation of multiple peripheral nerves), respiratory obstruction, and death in 5-10% of respiratory DPT cases. Cutaneous diphtheria causes infected skin lesions.
Treatment
Antitoxin is required for treatment of symptomatic diphtheria cases. Because diphtheria is so rare in the US, antitoxin is available only through the CDC.
Prevention
Vaccine for diphtheria is bundled into a shot that prevents tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis. They are usually administered starting at 2 months of age, and multiple shots are required.
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