Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus Flashcards
How is pertussis transmitted?
Respiratory route - highly contagious
What are lighter symptoms of pertussis?
Severe bouts of coughing over weeks
What are harsher symptoms of pertussis?
Pneumonia and neurological damage
What is another name for Pertussis?
Whooping cough
How big is the burden Pertussis?
195000 in 2008
Why is it hard to know the incidence and death toll of Pertussis?
It is hard to diagnose and thus calculate
How do you prevent Pertussis?
Vaccine is the most effective, killed whole bacteria in aluminium salts
Any Pertussis vaccine drawbacks?
Some pain and tenderness, occasional fever. Very rare of encephalopathy
What causes tetanus?
The toxins of the Clostridium tenus bacterium
How is tetanus transmitted?
Fecal-infected soil into open wounds (often found in livestock gastrointestinal tracts)
Tetanus symptoms
Stiffening and spasms, particularly the jaw which can lead to an inability to feed
How do you treat tetanus?
Supportive care with muscle relaxants and intravenous fluids
What is the case fatality of tetanus?
80-90%
Is there a vaccine for tetanus?
Toxiod, inactivated form of tetanus absorbed in aluminium salts
Is the Tetanus Vaccine safe?
Yes, very few reactions
What is a risk factor for Tetanus?
Unsanitary birthing conditions, especially though the stumps. Rural living areas with livestock also at risk
How is diphtheria transmitted?
Respiratory route and skin lesions
What are light symptoms of diphtheria?
Fever, sore throat, inflamed pharynx, greyish membrane covering inflamed mucosa
What is dangerous about diphtheria?
If left untreated airways can be blocked and cause death
What is the burden of diphtheria?
Unknown but not believed to be major
How is diphtheria treated?
Antibiotics and antitoxins although the latter is rarely available in LIC
Can diphtheria be prevented?
Yes through a vaccine which consists of diphtheria toxins
