Page 25 - The Regent Digest Volume 13 Issue 47

Signs and Symptoms

Prevention Begins with
• Sore throat and swollen glands in the neck
Fever and chills
• Thick gray or white coating on the throat or Awareness
tonsils
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

• Painful ulcers or sores on the skin (in skin Other preventive tips include:
diphtheria) • Practising good hygiene
• Covering mouth and nose when
Why It’s Dangerous • Avoiding close contact with sick
sneezing or coughing

individuals
The bacteria release toxins that can severely

damage the heart, nerves, and kidneys. Treatment
Without treatment, diphtheria may lead to:
• Paralysis
• Antitoxins to neutralise the
• Heart failure
diphtheria toxin
• Death
• Antibiotics to kill the bacteria
Even individuals without symptoms can carry
• Isolation to prevent spreading the
and spread the infection.
infection to others

Prevention

• The best protection is the DPT vaccine

(Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus):
• Given in multiple doses starting in infancy
• Booster shots are required in later years

By Sophia Oyarenua
El-Kanemi Hostel Matron

THE REGENT SECONDARY SCHOOL 25