An Epidemiological Investigation of the Diphtheria Outbreaks Reported in a District of Gujarat

Abstract

Introduction: Mortality and morbidity due to infectious disease have got reduced in the last couple of decades. Diphtheria is one of the infectious diseases which can be preventable with a complete immunization. Objective: To understand trends and identify factors affecting the outbreak of diphtheria in Banaskantha district of Gujarat. Method: A retrospective study based on the available case records for the years 2019, 2020 and 2021(till June). The study was conducted after the reported diphtheria cases in a district. The study was a public health response and intended to provide specific geographical recommendations to the district. The data was recorded from the reported case record and immunization registers. The data were analyzed for defined variables. Results: Out of the 366 cases identified during years 2019-2021.Almost 74% cases have occurred during 2019, with a 7.7% mortality rate. Total 48% of cases were among the age group of 5-10 years, with an increasing number of cases during August-December with specific geographical distribution. Among all the cases, 164 (44.5%) have never taken any vaccine in their lifetime or are unaware of the vaccination status, and 87.9% of cases have not taken third dose of DPT or Pentavalent Vaccine, which is associated statistically with the mortality. Conclusion: The prevalence of diphtheria cases was high in children who have not taken all three doses of DPT or Pentavalent vaccine. These have shown an essential role of immunization, focusing on the vaccine for all doses and need to create a customized awareness communication plan.