Diphtheria

Up to 10% of people with diphtheria die from complications.²

Usually spread through coughing or sneezing. It is also transmitted by close contact with someone infected with the bacteria which cause the disease, including sharing items such as cutlery, clothing or bedding.³

Common in many countries in Asia, the Middle East, eastern Europe, the Caribbean and the South Pacific (see map).^1,4

The main symptom is a grey/white coating in the throat which can lead to difficulty in breathing or swallowing. It can also cause fever, sore throat and swollen glands in the neck.³

Severe diphtheria can cause difficulty breathing and can be fatal.³ There may also be serious effects on the heart, kidneys and nervous system.⁵ You may need to get prompt treatment with antibiotics and antitoxin.³

You can take the following precautions to help reduce your risk of infection:

• Visit your nearest convenient pharmacy or specialist travel health clinic for a risk assessment before your trip
• Wash your hands frequently, either with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitisers⁶
• Avoid contact with people who have symptoms of respiratory illness⁶
• Avoid sharing personal items such as eating and drinking utensils³