In the past 20 days, Deeg, a town in Rajasthan, has witnessed the tragic deaths of 8 children due to Diphtheria, an alarming situation that has prompted swift action from health authorities. Medical teams from Jaipur have arrived in Deeg to investigate the outbreak, and vaccinations are being administered across the affected areas. The severity of the outbreak is further highlighted by the arrival of a team from the World Health Organization (WHO), underscoring the global concern over this infectious disease.
What is Diphtheria?
Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the throat and upper airways. The infection leads to swelling in the throat, making it difficult to breathe. Without timely treatment, diphtheria can become fatal. In India, the disease is commonly referred to as "Galghontu," due to the severe throat-related complications it causes.
Over 4000 cases reported annually between 2005-14
According to WHO data, between 2005 and 2014, India reported an annual average of 4,167 diphtheria cases, with approximately 92 deaths each year. During this period, India accounted for nearly half of the global cases of diphtheria, making it one of the most affected countries.
The situation worsened in 2018, when a sudden surge in diphtheria cases was observed. That year, a staggering 8,788 cases were reported, with 52 deaths occurring in Delhi alone. In 2024, once again, the country is witnessing an increase in both cases and fatalities, as seen in the current situation in Deeg.
Symptoms, Transmission, and Risks
Diphtheria is caused by bacteria that attack the mucous membrane lining of the throat and nose. This damage can lead to complications with the respiratory system, significantly increasing the risk of a heart attack.
How Does Diphtheria Spread?
Diphtheria spreads through direct contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated surfaces. When an infected person sneezes or coughs, the bacteria are released into the air, posing a risk to those nearby. The challenge with diphtheria is that, during the early stages of infection, symptoms may not be visible, yet the disease can still be transmitted to others. Even without visible symptoms, the bacteria can continue to harm the body.
Key Symptoms of Diphtheria
The most recognizable symptom of diphtheria is the formation of a thick, brownish layer in the throat, which can severely impact breathing. This membrane-like layer gradually spreads, causing further damage to the heart and other organs.
Additional symptoms that require attention include:
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Sore throat with visible swelling
Fever and fatigue
Hoarseness of voice
Nasal discharge
Symptoms That Demand Immediate Medical Attention
While the initial symptoms of diphtheria can resemble those of the common cold, there are certain signs that should not be ignored. Rajesh Pathak, Senior Consultant in Pediatrics and Neonatology at Narayana Hospital, Jaipur, advises seeking immediate medical attention if three or more symptoms of diphtheria are observed simultaneously. These symptoms include difficulty breathing, the formation of the brown layer in the throat, and severe throat pain. Early intervention is crucial to prevent complications and reduce the risk of fatality.
Prevention and Treatment of Diphtheria
Vaccination remains the most effective measure against diphtheria. In India, the DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus) vaccine is administered to children as part of the national immunization program. Booster doses are also recommended for adolescents and adults. In areas experiencing outbreaks, immediate vaccination campaigns, like the one currently underway in Deeg, are crucial to curb the spread of the disease.
If diagnosed early, diphtheria can be treated with antitoxins and antibiotics. The antitoxin neutralizes the diphtheria toxin, while antibiotics help eliminate the bacterial infection. However, if left untreated, diphtheria can cause serious complications, including heart failure and nerve damage.