Cape Town – An outbreak of diphtheria has been reported at the Pollsmoor Correctional Centre in the Western Cape, South Africa, resulting in one death, Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla announced on Thursday.
The 19-year-old male inmate who initially presented symptoms on October 28 succumbed to the disease on November 5.
“Throat swabs were collected the same day for culture laboratory testing and the results returned positive five days later on 2 November. Unfortunately, his health condition continued to deteriorate until he regrettably passed away on 5 November,” a statement from the department said.
Contact tracing and testing revealed eight additional cases among close contacts, with two displaying mild symptoms.
Public health measures, including isolation and vaccination campaigns, are underway to control the outbreak.
Diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheria, affecting the mucous membranes of the nose and throat.
The disease is vaccine-preventable, and health authorities emphasize the importance of vaccination and early detection.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Picture: Pixabay
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
