15 Jan 2024 | 11:21 AM UTC
Guinea: Elevated diphtheria activity reported in multiple areas in January /update 1
Elevated diphtheria activity reported in multiple areas in Guinea in January. Confirm vaccination.
Local health authorities have declared an outbreak of diphtheria in Guinea, with more than 2,100 cases (33 confirmed, 2,056 suspected) reported July 4, 2023-Jan. 4, 2024. This is compared to no cases reported in Guinea in 2022. Elevated disease activity has been reported in Faranah, Kankan, Mamou, Pita, and Ratoma. Health authorities have implemented outbreak response measures including strengthening epidemiological surveillance efforts and intensifying vaccination efforts in Kankan Region. This represents the most complete data available as of Jan. 15.
Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against diphtheria or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas.
Diphtheria vaccination (DTP3) coverage in Guinea is estimated at 47 percent in 2022, which falls well below the 83-86 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. DTP3 vaccination coverage has remained below 50 percent in the country since 2014.
Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial disease spread through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Infected individuals can also expose people around them by contaminating surfaces with secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat. In rare cases, the bacteria can spread through contact with infected skin lesions. Symptoms typically appear 2-5 days after exposure but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Symptoms of diphtheria vary depending on where the bacteria accumulates in the body. If the bacteria accumulate in the nose, throat, or tonsils, symptoms generally include sore throat, fever, chills, and a characteristic white or grayish coating on the back of the nose or throat. If the bacteria accumulate on the skin, symptoms generally include a characteristic non-healing, gray ulcer on the skin, or a scaling rash.
