To assess the characteristics of patients with confirmed diphtheria during the 2023 outbreak in Guinea and evaluate the influence of specific risk factors, such as age, vaccination status, and contact with confirmed cases, on disease development.
Key Findings:
20.3% of suspected cases were confirmed as diphtheria.
Overall fatality rate was 8.9%, with deaths occurring an average of 2 days after admission, and 75% of deaths occurred within the first 3 months after the epidemic onset.
Common clinical symptoms included sore throat (91%), fever (90%), and whitish throat membrane (83%).
Risk factors for diphtheria included age <15 years, no prior vaccination, and contact with a confirmed case.
Interpretation:
Diphtheria remains a significant health threat in Guinea, exacerbated by low vaccination rates. Urgent action is needed to improve vaccination coverage and enhance awareness of diphtheria symptoms for early diagnosis and treatment.
Limitations:
Data limited to suspected cases reported during the outbreak.
Potential underreporting of cases and deaths may affect the accuracy of findings.
Conclusion:
The study highlights the critical need for improved vaccination coverage and awareness of diphtheria symptoms to reduce disease severity and mortality in Guinea.
