Vietnam Central Province Strives to Contain Diphtheria Outbreak

The Preventive Healthcare Department under the Ministry of Health (MoH) are taking various actions to contain the outbreak of Diphtheria in Vietnam’s central province of Quang Nam, state media reported on July 17. This is the first outbreak recorded in the mountainous Phuoc Loc commune of the province, which is home to 23,635 people with 70% of whom are Bh’noong ethnic minority who still subsist on nomadic farming and have little access to health services. The epidemic has claimed lives of three people so far this year. The provincial authorities have quarantined the area and carried out disinfection procedures. Meanwhile, the local Health Department has been carrying out vaccination program for all people living in the area. According to the provincial department, ten people were found with classic diphtheria symptoms and are being treated at medical center. Diphtheria is a dangerous respiratory disease caused by a potent toxin from certain strains of the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It is extremely contagious through coughing or sneezing. Risk factors include crowding, poor hygiene, and lack of immunizations. The disease can be treated and cured successfully with antitoxins and antibiotics if started early enough. Diphtheria can be prevented through vaccinations. (Nhan Dan July 17 p5, Vietnamplus July 17)