Outbreak Of Diphtheria:
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently said that the Health Ministry of Guinea has reported an outbreak of diphtheria.
- It is a highly contagious and infectious disease that causes severe inflammation of the nose, throat, and windpipe (trachea).
- It is caused by strains of bacteria called Corynebacterium diphtheriae that make a toxin. It is the toxin that can cause people to get very sick.
- The infection can transmit from a person with the infection to any mucous membrane in another person.
Diphtheria bacteria spread from person to person, usually through respiratory droplets, like from coughing or sneezing.
People can also get sick from touching infected open sores or ulcers. - Diphtheria signs and symptoms usually begin 2-5 days after a person becomes infected. Signs and symptoms may include:
- A thick, gray membrane covering the throat and tonsils
- A sore throat and hoarseness
- Swollen glands (enlarged lymph nodes) in the neck
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
