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Causes, risk factors of diphtheria (part 2)


Bangladeshpost
Published : 03 Mar 2022 07:47 PM | Updated : 03 Mar 2022 07:47 PM

Diphtheria is caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. The bacterium usually multiplies on or near the surface of the throat or skin. C. diphtheriae spreads through:

• Airborne droplets: When an infected person's sneeze or cough releases a mist of contaminated droplets, people nearby may inhale C. diphtheriae. Diphtheria spreads easily this way, especially in crowded conditions.

• Contaminated personal or household items: People sometimes catch diphtheria from handling an infected person's things, such as used tissues or hand towels, that may be contaminated with the bacteria.

Touching an infected wound also can transfer diphtheria-causing bacteria. People who have been infected by the diphtheria bacteria and who haven't been treated can infect people who haven't had the diphtheria vaccine — even if they don't show any symptoms.

Risk factors:

People who are at increased risk of catching diphtheria include:

• Children and adults who don't have up-to-date vaccinations

• People living in crowded or unsanitary conditions

• Anyone who travels to an area where diphtheria infections are more common

Diphtheria rarely occurs in the United States and Western Europe, where children have been vaccinated against the condition for decades. However, diphtheria is still common in developing countries where vaccination rates are low.

In areas where diphtheria vaccination is standard, the disease is mainly a threat to unvaccinated or inadequately vaccinated people who travel internationally or have contact with people from less developed countries.

COURTESY: MAYO CLINIC