Diphtheria Outbreak in Odisha. All You Need to Know

Odisha: At least 5 deaths and 18 suspected cases of diphtheria, a highly contagious infection were detected in Odisha. According to the Director of Public Health Odisha Nilakantha Mishra, in Koraput, only 1 case has been detected, in Kalahandi, there are 5 patients with cough and cold out of which 2 may be suffering from Diphtheria. 

“The total number of suspected cases was 21, but it has come down to 18... The total no. of deaths remains at 5, it has not increased... The vaccination has started from today,” he said. 

What is Diphtheria? 

Diphtheria is a highly contagious infection affecting the nose and throat, and sometimes the skin. 

How is Diphtheria caused? 

Diphtheria, a vaccine-preventable disease, is caused by strains of a bacterium called 'Corynebacterium diphtheria' that make toxins. 

What are the repercussions of Diphtheria if left untreated? 

The disease can lead to breathing, heart rhythm problems and if left untreated, it can also prove fatal.

How does Diphtheria spread?

Diphtheria is mainly spread by coughs and sneezes, or through close contact with someone infected and material objects (toys or clothes) used by the person already contracted diphtheria.

What is the Odisha government doing to curb the infection? 

The Public Health Department in Odisha is doing a house-to-house survey and verifying the vaccination status after 5 deaths were reported in Odisha due to diphtheria in Rayagada district's Kashipur area.

"There are five deaths in that area, 10 others are affected but stable and they are under treatment... We are doing a house-to-house survey and verifying the vaccination status," the Director of Public Health, Odisha, said.