Four cases of diphtheria confirmed in the Western Cape

The Western Cape Health Department has announced that four cases of diphtheria have been confirmed in the region.

It has called for residents not to panic as efforts are being made to curb the spread of the disease. The department has shared important information to educate the public more on the disease. It shared how iy spreads, who is at high risk and what are the symptoms. Find out more.

DIPHTHERIA DISEASE CASES IN THE WESTERN CAPE

The department’s notice read: “We can confirm that four laboratory-confirmed cases of treatable diphtheria disease involving adults have recently been identified in the Cape Metropole district.”

It also defined what this disease is and how it spreads. “Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial infection that spreads through respiratory droplets or contact with an infected person.”

Important information has also been provided to the public. This is in order for them to arm themselves and know all the symptoms to look out for.

RISKS, CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS OF DIPHTHERIA DISEASE

Even though diphtheria disease can affect anyone, two categories of people who are mostly at risk. These include children without full immunization as well as adults with waning immunity. The risk is said to be higher if the individuals are in crowded places.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), diphtheria disease is caused by a toxin-producing bacteria that affects the upper respiratory tract. However, it does not often affect the skin.

The symptoms listed include:

• Sore throat
• Fever
• Chills
• Nausea
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing

CALL FOR RESIDENTS NOT TO PANIC

The health department has called for the residents not to panic. It said: “We ask residents not to panic while efforts to control diphtheria cases are underway. Residents can be assured that every have stepped efforts with our partners to screen people who have been exposed to the disease in the affected communities. Treatment is also being offered to those with symptoms consistent with the disease.”

The statement concluded by saying the department is working together with various partners in their bid to curb the spread. “The Department is working closely with all partners including the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS), and the City of Cape Town in managing these cases.”