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The World Health Organization reports continued transmission of diphtheria in African countries. As of the most recent report of 30 June 2024, the following countries are reporting cases:
Nigeria: From 8 May 2022 to 8 June 2024, there have been 32 869 suspected cases, including 884 confirmed deaths.
Niger: from 17 July 2023 to 15 June 2024, there have been 5 367 suspected cases, including 320 deaths in Matameye health district, Zinder region.
Guinea: from 4 July 2023 to 9 April 2024, 4 517 suspected cases, including 105 deaths have been reported from the Kankan, Faranah, Labé, Mamou, Conakry and N'Nzérékoré regions. Kankan is most affected, with 98.4% of suspected cases reported.
Gabon: from 1 January 2024 to 19 March 2024 there have been 28 suspected cases including 3 deaths.
Diphtheria is an acute bacterial infection affecting the respiratory tract or skin. The Corynebacterium species bacteria produce a toxin which can cause local tissue necrosis and if systemically absorbed can affect the myocardium, peripheral nerves and other tissues. It is transmitted through respiratory droplets from infected individuals or asymptomatic carriers, or direct contact with contaminated material (such as bed linen or clothing). It persists in many regions of the world and travel may increase an individual’s risk of exposure.
Immunity from diphtheria vaccine can wane with increasing age and the travel consultation provides a valuable opportunity to ensure individuals are optimally vaccinated against diphtheria.
Consider vaccinating:
Those individuals with an incomplete primary vaccination history for diphtheria
Travellers who have not had a booster dose of diphtheria-containing vaccine in the last 10 years
Aid workers travelling to regions with confirmed diphtheria outbreaks who are likely to be exposed to infection, and have not had a reinforcing dose of a diphtheria containing vaccine in the last 12 months
All travellers should be aware of the risk of diphtheria, its transmission routes and symptoms and are advised to:
Further guidance for the management of contacts of diphtheria cases is available from UKHSA
See the TRAVAX Diphtheria page for more information.
