How does diphtheria affect the body?

Diphtheria can cause toxins to be released into the circulatory system and tissues that can cause extensive organ damage. Complications affecting the heart and neurological complications, such as paralysis, can develop. The most common cause of death is suffocation by aspiration of the membrane.

Can diphtheria affect adults?

Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that spreads easily and occurs quickly. It mainly affects the nose and throat. Children under 5 and adults over 60 years old are particularly at risk for contracting the infection.

How long are you contagious with diphtheria?

Untreated patients who are infected with the diphtheria germ may be contagious for up to four weeks. If the patient is treated appropriately, the contagious period can be limited to less than four days.

How common is diphtheria in 2020?

Among confirmed cases, 58 cases including 17 deaths had symptom onset in 2016, 786 cases including 103 deaths in 2017, 775 cases including 151 deaths in 2018, 166 cases including 21 deaths in 2019, and 5 cases including 2 deaths in 2020.

Is Diphtheria on the Rise?

According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, incidence of diphtheria is on the rise, with almost 17,000 cases reported in 2018 – the highest incidence in 22 years.

What country did diphtheria come from?

The year is known as El Año de los Garrotillos (The Year of Strangulations) in the history of Spain. In 1735, a diphtheria epidemic swept through New England. Before 1826, diphtheria was known by different names across the world. In England, it was known as Boulogne sore throat, as it spread from France.

Do adults need diphtheria booster?

Studies estimate that diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccines protect nearly all people (95 in 100) for approximately 10 years. Protection decreases over time, so adults need to get a Td or Tdap booster shot every 10 years to stay protected.