Most of us have been vaccinated against diphtheria since inoculations were introduced in 1942. But the respiratory infection may now be on the rise. At least 50 cases have been detected over the past year and the disease could spread further unless action is taken.
According to the Health Security Agency (UKHSA), there were around 50 cases identified among asylum seekers who arrived in England over the past 11 months, compared with an average of 2 to 11 cases in the country per year over the past decade.
The government has been criticised for the overcrowded and ‘wretched’ conditions at a migrant holding facility in Manston, Kent, where cases of the disease have been found.
Diphtheria is a highly contagious disease that affects the nose and throat, and sometimes the skin. It can be treated with antibiotics. Symptoms of diphtheria, which usually kick in two to three days after infection, include:
- a thick grey-white coating that may cover the back of your throat, nose and tongue
- a high temperature (fever)
- sore throat
- swollen glands in your neck
- difficulty breathing and swallowing
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