Surveillance of diphtheria in the Netherlands between 2000-2021: cutaneous diphtheria supersedes the respiratory form.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Diphtheria is a severe respiratory or cutaneous infectious disease, caused by exotoxin producing Corynebacterium diphtheriae, C. ulcerans and C. pseudotuberculosis. Diphtheria is once again prevalent due to breakdown of immunisation programmes, social disruption and unrest.

Aim

This study describes the notified diphtheria cases in the Netherlands between 2000-2021 and isolates that were sent to the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM).

Methods

File investigation was performed including all notified cases and isolates of C. diphtheriae, C. ulcerans and C. pseudotuberculosis that were tested for toxin production using a toxin-PCR and Elek test. An exploratory review was performed to understand transmission in populations with a high

SUBMITTER: Elsinga J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10283224 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature