Diphtheria cases in State rise to 50, PHCs on alert

 Several outbreaks have been reported in Coimbatore and neighbouring districts due to lack of immunisation against diphtheria. But officials said the cases would be brought under control within a fortnight.

More than 10 cases of the disease in children were recorded last month and two cases have recently surfaced, in one of which an adult was infected. At least 10 patients are admitted to the Coimbatore Medical College and Hospital (CMCH), while others were discharged after one week of hospitalisation and remain under observation, sayhospital authorities.

“The patients are under observation and culture tests are also being conducted to identify the cause of the outbreak. There were about 50 suspected cases, of which more than 30 have been confirmed now. So far, the analysis has revealed lapses in the immunisation schedule, as many of the patients failed to receive successive shots against diphtheria. In the areas with high prevalence of diphtheria, the Primary Health Centres are on high alert,” said Dr K Kolandaisamy, Director of Public Health.

Diphtheria is easily transmissible through air. Though the suspected cases were reported at irregular intervals, the increase in numbers is mainly due to high risk of transmission. Diphtheria affects the throat and windpipe and can also affect other organs. More number of confirmed cases are reported in children aged between 8 years and 15 years, said hospital authorities.

“The main tool against the infection is immunisation and those who have missed successive boosters at young age are recommended to get them to prevent the infection. The medicines and vaccines take time to bring the infection in control. However, the cases are not critical and are very likely to be controlled within a fortnight,” said Dr Ashokan, dean, Coimbatore Medical College and Hospital.