Epidemiological Update: Diphtheria - 25 June 2021
Format
In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) reiterates to Member States that vaccination and epidemiological surveillance of vaccine-preventable diseases should be considered an essential health service that should not be interrupted. Considering the decline in coverage of the diphtheria vaccine, PAHO / WHO also reminds Member States that it is important that they have a plan to maintain a permanent supply of diphtheria antitoxin to control possible outbreaks.
Summary of the situation in the Americas
In 2021, between epidemiological week (EW) 1 and EW 24, three countries have reported confirmed cases of diphtheria: Brazil with one (1) confirmed case, the Dominican Republic with 13 confirmed cases including 10 deaths, and Haiti with 12 confirmed cases including 2 deaths.
Brazil reports 1st confirmed diphtheria case in Mato Grosso state outbreaknewstoday.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from outbreaknewstoday.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.