Respiratory diphtheria in the time of Omicron

Abstract

Diphtheria is a potentially fatal bacterial infection caused by toxin-producing strains of corynebacteria, most often Corynebacterium diphtheriae and less commonly Corynebacterium ulcerans. Incidence of the disease has fallen significantly since the introduction of vaccination programs; it is now rare in countries with high vaccination coverage such as Australia.

This article presents the most recent respiratory cases of diphtheria in two children in New South Wales—the first locally acquired childhood cases in Australia in 30 years—and discusses potential contributing factors. These encompass the lack of clinical awareness and the delays in laboratory diagnosis in regional laboratories. The cases also highlight the problem of vaccine hesitancy and the role that primary carers play in addressing these anxieties.

While clinical management of the cases progressed well, factors in the public health responses were complicated by access to appropriate care and by delays in antibiotic sensitivity profiles.

The public health response to these cases raises important considerations for clinicians and public health practitioners, including preparedness for rare and re-emerging diseases, the need for culturally safe environments and the importance of addressing vaccine hesitancy. Preparedness requires consideration of the capacity of regional health systems with fewer resources and of how public health departments can support response to multiple crises. Preparedness also relies on access to necessary diagnostic laboratory resources, on up-to-date guidelines, and on maintaining awareness among clinicians for these rare infections.