Diphtheria Vaccine
Diphtheria is an extremely infectious disease that attacks the nose and throat and at other times the skin. Although it is rare in the UK, there’s a small chance of getting it if you travel to certain regions of the world. If not treated immediately, diphtheria can be a severe condition and sometimes deadly, especially in children. However, vaccination can stop it. Get the diphtheria vaccine in Brighton at Coldean Pharmacy and have peace of mind as you travel.
Since the 1940s, there’s been routine immunisation in babies. As a result, diphtheria cases are uncommon in the UK.
Diphtheria vaccine in Brighton
The best method of avoiding the infection while travelling is to get a full diphtheria vaccination.
If you’re travelling to certain parts of the world where there is a risk of diphtheria, you should have a booster vaccination. This is suitable if your last vaccination against it is more than 10 years ago.
Since 2018, the World Health Organisation has recorded a high number of cases in the following regions:
– Indonesia
– India
– South America
– Africa
How is diphtheria spread?
Diphtheria is a very contagious bacterial infection. Therefore, it spreads through coughing and sneezing, or through close contact with an infected person.
Transmission of the infection also occurs through sharing items, for example, cups, cutlery, clothing, or bedding, with a sick person.
Symptoms of diphtheria
Normally, the symptoms appear 2 to 5 days after exposure.
They include:
– a thick grey-white coating at the back of the throat, nose, and tongue
– a high temperature (fever)
– sore throat
– swollen glands in your neck
– breathing and swallowing difficulties
Diphtheria vaccine and treatments
The main treatments for diphtheria are:
– antibiotics to destroy the diphtheria bacteria
– medicines that stop the production of toxins by the bacteria
– cleaning any infected wounds thoroughly if the disease is affecting your skin
Either a diphtheria vaccination or antibiotics are necessary if you came in close contact with a diphtheria patient.
