Diphtheria occurs sporadically in several countries in the Americas

Diphtheria can occur almost anywhere in unvaccinated persons. So far this year, in Latin America, the following countries have reported sporadic cases or outbreaks of this dangerous infection:

• Brazil: 39 suspected diphtheria cases reported by 13 states.
• Dominican Republic: 3 confirmed diphtheria cases reported.
• Haiti: 120 cases and 7 deaths.
• Venezuela: 511 probable diphtheria cases were reported by 17 states.

Advice

About 1 out of 10 adults and as many as 1 out of 5 children younger than 5 years, who get diphtheria, die. Travellers are reminded that outbreaks of the highly contagious diphtheria bacteria can occur anywhere in the world at any time. Travellers should also be aware that the commercial production of diphtheria antitoxin used to treat this disease has virtually ceased. The success of vaccination campaigns has greatly reduced demand for this biological product. Travellers can reduce their risk of exposure to this infection by ensuring that their childhood vaccinations, including diphtheria, are up-to-date prior to travelling. By avoiding becoming infected, travellers do not run the risk of finding that there are no treatments available.