Diphtheria is an acute bacterial disease that usually affects the tonsils, throat, nose and/or skin. It is usually spread from
person to person by breathing in droplets that contain diphtheria bacteria. These droplets are produced after an infected
person has coughed, sneezed or even laughed. The disease can also be spread by contact with items such as drinking glasses
and soiled tissues which are contaminated by discharges from an infected person. Diphtheria bacteria can cause a
“membrane’ to form over the throat that can lead to breathing problems. Untreated diphtheria can occasionally result in
heart failure, paralysis or death. Although no longer a common disease in the US, diphtheria remains a large problem in
other countries and can pose a serious threat to those not fully immunized who travel to other countries or have contact with
international travelers coming to the US.
Symptoms :
In its early stages, diphtheria may be mistaken
for a severe sore throat. Other symptoms include
a low grade fever and enlarged lymph nodes
(swollen glands) located in the neck. Another
presentation of diphtheria can be skin lesions
that may be painful, red and swollen. Symptoms
usually appear 2 to 4 days after infection, with a
range of 1 to 6 days. Untreated diphtheria
patients may continue to carry diphtheria
bacteria and can be contagious for up to 4 weeks.
Some persons may also carry the diphtheria
bacteria and spread the disease even though they
themselves do not develop symptoms.
Who should get Td/Tdap vaccine?
♦ All persons who did not receive a primary series of immunization against tetanus and diphtheria during
childhood.
♦ Persons who have not received a booster dose within the past 10 years.
♦ All adolescents and adults who deferred their regular booster during 2001-2002 because of shortages of the vaccine
– the supply problems have been resolved.
♦ Among adolescents aged 11-18 years and adults 19-64 years who have not already received Tdap (Td in
combination with acellular pertussis antigens), a single dose of Tdap is preferred for the regular booster (rather than
Td) to add protection against pertussis (whooping cough) .
♦ Adults who have recovered from diphtheria disease.
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