Diphtheria in Children- Are we even close to control the menace?

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Original Article

Author Details : S.V. Savaskar, S.T. Bandichhode, P.S. Chhajed

Volume : 3, Issue : 3, Year : 2017

Article Page : 106-109

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Abstract

Introduction: Despite the success of mass immunization in many countries worldwide, diphtheria continues to play a major role as a lethal resurgent infectious disease. The case reports of resurgence/persistence of diphtheria in India represent only the tip of the iceberg.
Aims and Objectives: To study the epidemiology, clinical profile, complications and outcome of diphtheria in children.
Materials and Method: A retrospective observational study conducted at a teaching hospital. Review of case notes of all children aged 1 month – 14 years, clinically/microbiologically diagnosed and managed as diphtheria was done. Demographic, clinical & immunization status details, complications and outcome were recorded.
Results: A total of 149 cases were reviewed. Male to female ratio was 1.26:1. Maximum (65.77%) cases were reported from regions of Karnataka. Incidence of diphtheria was 0.4%. Highest incidence (46.98%) was seen in children of 5-10 years age group. Majority (69.80%) were unimmunized. Difficulty swallowing (89.93%) and bull neck (81.21%) were common presentations. A total of 79 complications were seen of which myocarditis was the commonest (41.77%). Of 149, 98 (65.77%) recovered and were successfully discharged. CFR was 29.53%. Maximum deaths (50%) were seen in 1-5 year age group. Most children (88.63%) died within 5 days of hospitalisation.
Conclusion: Even after more than 3 decades of UIP implementation, diphtheria is still not a lost entity. A shift in age incidence was observed. Occurrence in completely immunized children points towards waning immunity with age or flaws in immunization. Uniformity and improvement in vaccine coverage, adolescent/adult immunization and early diagnosis and treatment might take us closer to achieve control.

Keywords: Diphtheria, Vaccine preventable diseases, Resurgence, DTP3

How to cite : Savaskar S, Bandichhode S, Chhajed P, Diphtheria in Children- Are we even close to control the menace?. IP Int J Med Paediatr Oncol 2017;3(3):106-109

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