There is a rise in diphtheria cases in the Philippines. The Embassy of the United States of America is urging American citizens in the country to make sure that their diphtheria vaccine is up to date.
Diphtheria Cases in the Philippines
After receiving reports that there's a rise of diphtheria cases in numerous regions in the Philippines, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Level 2 travel health advisory on May 1, The Manila Times reported.
Based on the map, most cases of diphtheria are in Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Western Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, and Bangsamoro.
According to the US embassy, anyone traveling to affected areas should be up to date on their diphtheria vaccinations. The agency also stressed that vaccination is the only effective way to prevent severe infection.
They also advised the public to avoid contacting someone with diphtheria symptoms, especially fever and sore throat.
According to the Department of Health (DOH), the incubation period lasts two to five days or longer. The bacteria can be transported via droplets through sneezing, coughing, and close personal contact.
The period of communicability may last for two to three weeks. However, patients can shorten it by taking antibiotic treatment.
Diphtheria transmission has been reported in schools, hospitals, and crowded areas.
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What Is Diphtheria?
Diphtheria is brought on by a toxin-producing bacteria called Corynebacterium diphtheriae. C. diphtheriae produces a toxin that causes the deadly infection known as diphtheria. The toxin has the potential to make individuals very ill.
According to the CDC website, it can cause breathing problems, issues with heart rhythm, and even death. Diphtheria bacteria can pass from one person to another through respiratory droplets produced by sneezing or coughing. Transmission is also possible by touching open sores or ulcers in diphtheria patients might also make someone sick.
The bacteria can cause a sore throat, a moderate fever, and swollen neck glands when they enter the respiratory system. The bacteria produce a toxin that can make it difficult to breathe and swallow while also killing healthy tissues in the respiratory system.
If the poison gets into the bloodstream, it can also result in issues with the heart, nerves, and kidneys. Skin conditions brought on by C.diphtheriae features shallow ulcers like sores and do not result in severe condition.
Respiratory diphtheria can be fatal for some people. One in 10 patients with respiratory diphtheria dies even after receiving treatment. Up to 50% of patients may pass away from the illness if they are not treated.
You run a higher chance of being very ill when exposed to diphtheria if you are sick and not entirely or fully vaccinated against it. The patient should begin receiving antibiotics and diphtheria antitoxin as soon as feasible.
To guard against diphtheria, the CDC advises that everyone two months of age and older receive the vaccine.
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