The Federal Government recently confirmed the outbreak of Diphtheria Disease in Nigeria which has already claimed many lives.
Below are some information about the disease.
Diphtheria is a serious infection of the nose and throat.
It comes with sheet of thick, grey matter that covers the back of the throat, making breathing hard.
It is however, preventable.
HOW IT SPREADS
It is airborne and spreads through respiratory droplets (coughs or sneezes).
It can also be spread through saliva (kissing or shared drinks).
SYMPTOMS
Though Diphtheria detection requires medical diagnosis, symptoms include;
sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes and weakness.
TREATMENT
Diphtheria can be treated using antibiotics and an antitoxin that neutralises the diphtheria toxin.
A vaccine is available.