Diphtheria Outbreak in Berlin Highlights Vaccination Gaps

Diphtheria Resurgence in Berlin Sparks Health Concerns

A resurgence of diphtheria has been reported in Berlin, as a 10-year-old unvaccinated student fell seriously ill with pharyngeal diphtheria. This life-threatening bacterial infection produces a toxin that can lead to severe complications. The child was initially treated in Potsdam before being transferred to Berlin's Charité hospital, where he was placed on a ventilator due to respiratory distress. Diphtheria, once known as the "strangling angel of children," was largely eradicated in Germany following the introduction of vaccinations in 1913. However, the absence of vaccination in this case highlights the ongoing risk. The disease, which spreads through droplets and contact infections, has seen a concerning rise in cases nationwide, with over 100 instances reported in 2022 and 2023. Health officials have implemented measures, including the monitoring and treatment of contact persons. The Standing Vaccination Commission continues to recommend diphtheria vaccinations for infants, children, and adults every ten years. This incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of adhering to vaccination guidelines to prevent the re-emergence of once-controlled diseases.