Diphteria

Why in news?

• A team of researchers from India, the UK and Russia, has found that Diphtheria, which is a relatively easily-preventable infection, has started to become resistant to several classes of antibiotics and in future, it may even become immune to vaccination.

About Diphteria:

• Diphtheria is an infection caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
• Signs and symptoms may vary from mild to severe, beginning with a sore throat and fever.
• The neck may swell in part due to enlarged lymph nodes and complications may include myocarditis, inflammation of nerves, kidney problems, and bleeding problems due to low levels of platelets.
• Diphtheria is usually spread between people by direct contact or through the air or contaminated objects.
• A diphtheria vaccine is effective for prevention and available in a number of formulations.
• In 2015, 4,500 cases were officially reported worldwide, down from nearly 100,000 in 1980 and currently occurs most often in sub-Saharan Africa, India, and Indonesia and children are most affected.

Prelims Question

Consider the following statements regarding Diphteria:
1.It is caused by virus infection.
2.It spread through air.
Which among the above statements is/are correct?
(a)1 only
(b)2 only
(c)Both 1 and 2 
(d)Neither 1 nor 2

Answer to the Prelims Question