A sharp rise in diphtheria cases in the UK and Europe has been linked to small boat crossings, according to researchers at the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID).
The research highlights how 73 cases of the disease were recorded in England in 2022 overall, up from 12 cases the previous year. One further case was recorded in 2023.
The authors said: “Linked to an increase in migrant arrivals via small boat in the summer of 2022, the UK experienced a sharp increase in diphtheria cases caused by toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae last year.”
Speaking about data for Europe as a whole, they said there had been “evident transmission among migrant people” which they believed had occurred “during travel within migrant facilities”.
In November, it was reported that thousands of migrants in the UK are to be vaccinated. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said it was working with the Home Office to vaccinate migrants at the Manston asylum centre against the disease.
What is diphtheria?
Diptheria is a highly contagious infection. It affects the nose, throat, and sometimes the skin, and can be serious and sometimes fatal, if not treated quickly, according to the NHS.
The infection is rare in the UK but there’s a risk of catching it by travelling to some parts of the world.
What are its symptoms?
Symptoms usually start two to five days after infection and include the following:
- a thick, grey-white coating on the back of your throat, nose, and tongue
- a high temperature
- a sore throat
- swollen glands in your neck
- difficulty breathing and swallowing
Cutaneous diphtheria is an infection of the skin and symptoms include pus-filled blisters and large ulcers.
How does diphtheria spread?
Diphtheria is highly contagious and can be spread via coughs and sneezes, or through close contact with someone who is infected.
It can also be spread by sharing items, such as cutlery or bedding, with an infected person.
How is diphtheria treated?
Diphtheria can be treated with antibiotics, medicine, and by cleaning wounds if it has affected the skin.
People who have been in close contact with someone who is infected may also need treatment.
Can diphtheria be prevented?
Diphtheria can be prevented by vaccination. In the UK, babies and children have been routinely vaccinated against diphtheria since the 1940s, which is why it’s rare here.
People who intend to travel to parts of the world where there is a higher risk of diphtheria may need a booster vaccine before travelling.
