Infectious Diseases, Prevention and Control

Introduction: In developing countries like India, diphtheria is a significant child health problem. It is on the verge of elimination yet is notified in some pockets like North Karnataka, North Kerala and Uttar Pradesh. Solapur fall on the Maharashtra – north Karnataka border and thus is the most vulnerable area. There are notified cases of diphtheria in adult population as well. Here we describe the recent outbreaks of diphtheria in Solapur district, Maharashtra a period of consecutive six months. The study was undertaken in Dr. V.M. Govt. Medical College, Solapur in Department of Microbiology. Aim: To identify and isolate Corynebacterium species and demonstrate for the toxigenicity test. Material & Methods: Investigation was done on strong clinical suspected cases; two throat swabs were collected as per the Standard Operating Procedure laid down by the department. Final diagnosis was done based on clinical findings, direct microscopy and bacteriological culture. Isolates were sent to reference laboratory for TOX gene detection and Toxigenicity testing. Results: All cases were of pediatric age group, either unimmunized or partially immunized. Early diagnosis and treatment with ADS is crucial which leads to favorable outcome. Conclusion & Discussion: According to this study it is found that most of the strains of C. diphtheriae isolated from clinical samples were toxin-producing strains which indicates the need to spread awareness about the disease among people with low educational status, enhance epidemiological surveillance, strengthening and reviewing the efficacy of immunization program all of which ultimately helps in early diagnosis and treatment leading to favorable outcome and low fatality rate.