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Further cases of diphtheria have been reported in the outbreak occurring in KwaZulu-Natal province. As of 27 May 2015, a total of 13 cases have been reported. Of those, 8 have been confirmed, one is a probable case and 4 are suspected cases. Five diphtheria related deaths have been recorded in this outbreak.
Two contacts linked to two confirmed cases have been identified as asymptomatic carriers of toxigenic C. diphtheriae.
Cases have been identified in two areas of the province; Durban and Ugu district. The age range of cases is 20 months to 41 years. Almost half of the cases are in the 5-9 years age group. The vaccination history is known for 5 cases, however, only one case is fully immunised against diptheria.
In response to the outbreak, the Department of Health put in place the following interventions: contact tracing and administration of post-exposure prophylaxis; vaccination campaigns in the community and schools where the cases resided; an awareness and health promotion campaign in the communities; awareness of the outbreak cascaded to healthcare professionals.
(Via NICD Communicable Diseases Communique - May 2015 - accessed 01/06/15)
Diphtheria vaccination is sometimes recommended for travellers to South Africa who are at higher risk of infection.
Travellers should ensure that they are up-to-date with the UK national vaccine schedule.
