By Hamu Madzedze
The World Health Organisation(WHO) has published the first ever-guidance on the clinical management of Diphtheria following an increase in cases of the disease.
WHO said the clinical practice guideline has been developed recognising the global increase in Diphtheria cases and outbreaks in Nigeria ,Guinea and neighbouring countries have highlighted the urgent need for evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of Diphtheria.
"Given the sporadic nature of outbreaks many clinicians in the affected regions have never managed acute diphtheria and its related complications".
The World health body said the only previously available guidance was an operational protocol and the new guidelines have followed a rigorous process for developing guidance at WHO.
WHO said the guidelines address the use of Diphtheria Antitoxin (DAT) in the treatment of the disease and also includes new recommendations on antibiotics.
"In patients with suspected or confirmed cases ,WHO recommends using macrolide antibiotics such as Azithromycin and Erythromycin rather than penicillin antibiotics"stated WHO.
The World Health Organisation said Diphtheria remains a neglected disease and vaccination remains a top priority and for patients with Diphtheria access to antibiotics ,DAT and supportive care can be lifesaving.
Diphtheria is a contagious disease that is caused by toxin producing bacteria and this toxin causes damage to the respiratory tract and can spread throughout the body.
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