Often Neglected, Watch Out For Diphtheria!

Diphtheria is an acute infectious disease caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium Diphteria. The risk groups of Diphtheria are children and the elderly, but nowadays because of the development of adulthood people can be infected. The underlying risk factors for diphtheria infection are inadequate immunity due to incomplete baby immunization, premature immunization and reduced vaccine potential.

The clinical symptoms of Diphtheria vary from asymptomatic to fatal. The symptoms are :

1.Fever about 380 C

2.Pain during swallowing

3.Leather swelling like the neck of a cow (bullneck)

4.Shortness of breath accompanied by a stridor

5.Feeling unpleasant, nausea and vomiting

6.Headache

The incubation period of Diphtheria usually lasts from two to five days. In the case of cutaneous diphtheri, it occurs seven days after the primary infection of the skin. The patient will then show non-specific complaints such as fever and sometimes shivering. Diphtheria generally attacks the upper respiratory tract (garlic, pharyngeal, tonsil) in the form of painful stools and bruising, mucous and sometimes mixed-blooded rhinorrhea, as well as the presence of bumps and bruises in the neck area. It can also attack other organs such as the skin and mucous membranes as well as the eyes. Direct contact can be caused by coughing, sneezing, speaking and adequate exposure of the infected skin. And the box doesn't come directly through dust, clothes, books or contaminated toys. Transmission through respiratory tract droplets in the affected can be asymptomatic and is an important factor in the spread of the disease, such as:

1.Vaccine This vaccine is used to prevent the dangers of Diphtheria. The common vaccine in Indonesia is DPT immunization. This immunization is mandatory given when children are 2,3,4, and 18 months old and 5 years old.

2.Antibiotics An antibiotic is given to kill bacteria, prevent transmission and stop the production of toxins.

For Friend Hermina, when you find the symptoms above, you'll be taken to the nearest health facility. Hermina Samarinda's hospital is ready to help treat her until she recovers.

Created by: Dr. Bernie, Sp.PD
Reviewed by: Dr. Syamsul Rizal

Reference:
Ministry of Health RI (2019). Guide to Detection and Response of Meningitis Meningococcal Disease
Pope Adult Immunization Guidelines (2022). Adult immunization guidelines 2022