Diphtheria is one of the rare diseases in our country and is caused by the poison (toxin) of the diphtheria bacterium. If the vaccination coverage of the population is inadequate, a clustered occurrence is again possible in our country.
The disease, which is mainly transmitted by droplet infection, often takes a severe, sometimes life-threatening course despite certain treatment options.
In particular, damage to the heart muscle is feared, which can lead to death. Only preventive vaccination can effectively protect individuals and the community.
Vaccination: dead vaccine, expediently as multiple vaccination, injection into the muscle.
Who should get vaccinated?
Vaccination against diphtheria is necessary for everyone. Adults who have not yet been vaccinated should also be vaccinated. Travel to an endemic area (area with a high incidence of diphtheria) should not be undertaken until after the 2nd vaccination at the earliest.
In case of sufficient tetanus vaccination protection, only the single vaccination against diphtheria should be given.