DIPHTHERIA
This is one of the vaccine preventable diseases. This is an infectious disease produced by Corynebacterium diphtheriae and is characterized by the formation of pseudomembrane in the faucial area and tonsils.
This disease is endemic throughout the world except in developed countries with extensive successful immunization program. In our country, there is a higher prevalence during the colder months of December through February. Diphtheria is mainly a disease of childhood with a peak incidence between 2 and 5 years. This is rare below 6 months of age due to transplacental transmission of immunity acquired from mothers who presumably may have developed active immunity from in apparent infections, as in most adults.
Diphtheria is transmitted through discharges and secretions from lesions by direct or indirect contact with patients or carriers and through other things like toys and clothing.
Clinically, after an incubation period of two days to one week, a child may have an onset of low grade fever, malaise, headache, sore throat and cervical lymphadenopathy. In 24 hours, a pseudomembrane in the faucial area and tonsils may develop that may extend to the nasopharynx. This may be the reason for difficulty and pain on swallowing, noisy breathing and regurgitation of fluids through the nose. In severe cases, a” bull neck” appearance is seen due to enlargement of the lymph glands. Death may occur from bronchopneumonia or toxic myocarditis.
So dear mothers, I beg you, bring your children to the health center and to your respective pediatricians for their protection against Diphtheria. Ideally, this vaccine is given together with Pertussis and Tetanus and Polio at 6 weeks, 10 weeks and 14 weeks of age. A booster dose is given at 1 year and 6 months of age. Always remember the old saying that, ” an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. So, Immunize them! Protect them! Love them!