The return of a deadly disease in Australia has left a child fighting for their life after contracting diphtheria, a condition that has not been seen in the region for over a century, causing alarm for those vulnerable to the rare disease.
The two-year-old child, from northern New South Wales, has developed diphtheria of the throat and is currently being treated in the intensive care unit of a Queensland hospital. The condition has not been seen in NSW for over a century, causing alarm for those vulnerable to this rare disease.
It was revealed that the child had not received the diphtheria vaccination, leading the Northern NSW Health District to issue a statement that the infected child is battling for their life. Dr. Paul Douglas, Director of North Coast Public Health, stated that while Australia has a longstanding immunization program, diphtheria can have serious outcomes and can be fatal.
The bacteria that cause diphtheria are highly contagious and can spread through the air via coughing and sneezing, as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces. Doctors are working tirelessly to save the child’s life, using antitoxin, medication, and respiratory support. Those in close proximity to the child have received antibiotics and immunization to prevent further spread of the bacterial infection.
Despite the efforts of the medical team, the situation is grave, and parents are urged to check their children’s immunization status and to get them vaccinated against diphtheria if they have not already received it. Dr. Douglas emphasized that the diphtheria vaccination is free and readily available to everyone from six weeks of age and urged everyone to keep up to date with their vaccinations.
Diphtheria is a disease that has long plagued children and was a leading cause of death in young children until the 1940s when vaccination was introduced to stop the bacteria from causing life-threatening illness. Australia has a high rate of immunization, making it rare for a case of diphtheria to occur. However, the condition is prevalent in countries where vaccinations are not prioritized and herd immunity is low.
Symptoms of diphtheria depend on the site of infection, with the most severe cases involving the throat and tonsils. Children with the disease often experience a sore throat, loss of appetite, and a mild fever. Within two to three days, a white-gray membrane forms over the throat, making it difficult for the child to swallow.
For adults, the vaccination for diphtheria is included with the tetanus and pertussis shots. It is imperative that parents keep their children’s vaccinations up to date to prevent the spread of this deadly disease. The current situation is a stark reminder of the importance of immunization and the need for continued vigilance to keep these diseases at bay.
Source: AWM