DIPHTHERIA

Diphtheria is an acute infectious disease of childhood characterized by local inflammation of epithelial surface. This infection is caused by a Gram positive bacillus, Corynebacterium diphtheria. It occurs more in the autumn and winter seasons. The pre-school children are especially vulnerable to diphtheria. Corynebacterium diphtheria liberate a powerful exotoxin .The exotoxin affects the heart, kidney and central nervous system. The secretions and discharge from an infected person or carrier are the sources of infection. The infections are transmitted by contact or through droplets of infection. Incubation period for this disease is around 2-5 days. Main symptoms of this diphtheria are fever, head ache and loss of appetite. The treatment for this disease includes following principles they are Neutralization of exotoxin by using antitoxin, Antibotics to destroy bacteria, Supportive and symptomatic therapy, and Management of complications .Some antibiotics used are penicillin or erythromycin should be used to terminate the production of toxin. To Prevent and control this disease the patient should be isolated until two successive cultures from the throat and nose are negative for diphtheria bacillus. Previously immunized. Asymptomatic patients should receive a booster dose of diphtheria toxoid which is helpful in curing this diphtheria. Those who are not fully immunized, but asymptomatic contacts should receive immunization appropriate for their age. By following the above methods, we can prevent and control this diphtheria disease.