Skikda, Algeria – Health officials are responding to a recent outbreak of diphtheria in the Skikda province, with five confirmed cases and two fatalities reported. The outbreak has prompted the establishment of a crisis cell within the provincial health directorate to manage the situation and implement necessary preventative and treatment measures.
Diphtheria, a highly contagious bacterial infection, primarily affects the respiratory system. Dr. Elias Akhamouk, head of the Infectious and Tropical Diseases Department at Tamanrasset Hospital, emphasized the severity of the disease, particularly for unvaccinated individuals. He warned of potential complications affecting the respiratory, cardiac, renal, and neurological systems.
Treatment protocols involve isolating patients to prevent further transmission, administering anti-toxins to neutralize bacterial toxins, and providing antibiotics to combat the infection. Management of any complications is also crucial.
Preventative measures are paramount. Dr. Akhamouk stressed the importance of isolating infected individuals, reporting cases to the health authorities, and implementing comprehensive vaccination programs. He further recommended booster vaccinations for adults every ten years, as well as vaccinating displaced populations, migrants, and organizing vaccination campaigns in camps and gathering places.
The Ministry of Health confirmed the five cases in Skikda, including the deaths of a 25-year-old foreign national and a 12-year-old girl who was unvaccinated. Epidemiological investigations are underway to trace contacts of the infected individuals, who are receiving preventative treatment and vaccinations.
In the past 48 hours, local health teams have vaccinated 514 people as part of a proactive campaign overseen by the provincial crisis cell. The Ministry of Health assures the public that the situation is being closely monitored and managed to contain the spread of the disease. DZWatch will continue to provide updates as they become available.
