Save yourself from deadly diphtheria
Two in KZN have already perished from the disease, which is highly contagious.
After three years of dormancy, diphtheria has returned to KwaZulu-Natal.
No cases have been reported at Newcastle Regional Hospital at this time, said spokesman Sabelo Buthlezi, yet residents, and in particular parents, have been advised to make sure inoculations are up to date.
Two in KZN have already perished from the disease, which is highly contagious.
It was reported 10 had been infected in the first diphtheria resurfacing in South Africa since 2009, yet MEC for Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo said he did not want to push the panic button.
Instead, he called for adherence to department policies regarding vaccinations.
“Babies are first vaccinated against diphtheria at six weeks. They then receive boosters at eight, and again at 12. Adherence to this schedule by parents and caregivers is crucial and would likely result in life-long immunity against this disease.”
Children who have not been immunised are most often affected by diphtheria, although the disease can affect a person of any age.
In diphtheria, the following symptoms are observed:
When affecting the throat and tonsils – sore throat, appetite loss, slight fever. A bluish-white or grey membrane forms in the throat and on the tonsils, which may bleed. The patient either recovers at this point or becomes frail and dies. Severe diphtheria may cause a swollen or bull neck and obstructed airways.
Dr Dhlomo added vaccinations saved lives, and urged parents or guardians visit a health-care centre even if the inoculation information had been lost or did not exist.
“With boosters we give children the strength to survive, because without it, they become susceptible to this disease. It is a serious condition once you get it and it can lead to death, especially among babies.”
