Cape Town Netcare Medicross, South Africa's largest network of private medical and dental centres, has joined the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) in urging all South Africans to stay alert and ensure their vaccinations are up to date due to a rise in diphtheria cases.

Recent NICD situational reports show that from January to March 2025, there were 36 confirmed diphtheria cases in the country, with adults making up 78% of those affected. Tragically, nine lives were lost to this preventable disease during this period. These numbers emphasise the importance of staying informed and protected, with vaccination being the surest way to guard against diphtheria.

Understanding diphtheria and its risks

“We cannot overemphasise the importance of proactive health measures in protecting our communities,” says Sr Nazmeera Mahomed, clinical nurse leader at the Netcare Medicross medical and dental centre in Parow in the Western Cape.

“Diphtheria is a highly contagious and potentially deadly bacterial infection which mainly spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing droplets into the air. The disease can appear in two forms: the first, known as respiratory diphtheria, affects the throat and airways, while the second, cutaneous diphtheria, impacts the skin. Once in the body, the bacteria can release toxins that damage tissues, often affecting the throat and upper airways the most,” she explains.

“Symptoms include a sore throat, fever and swollen glands in the neck – often referred to as a ‘bull neck’. The formation of a pseudomembrane – a thick, greyish layer that forms on the mucous membranes in the throat and tonsils – is a characteristic sign of diphtheria that often helps doctors diagnose the infection. The membrane consists of dead tissue, white blood cells, bacteria, and other substances and can cause breathing difficulties by blocking the airway if it becomes too large.

"If not treated early, diphtheria can lead to serious health issues like blocked airways, heart damage and even death. It is a communicable disease that can spread from person to person. The bacteria release toxins that harm the heart, kidneys, and nervous system, causing life-threatening illnesses. Seeking medical attention is important to confirm the diagnosis, get the necessary treatment and protect the community by enabling notification to the NICD,” explains Sr Nazmeera.

Vaccination – your best defence  

“One of the key defences against diphtheria, an illness that can impact individuals of all ages, is vaccination. The DTP vaccine protects against three major diseases. While the ‘D’ in DTP stands for diphtheria, the vaccine also offers protection against tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough).

“This combination vaccine simplifies the vaccination process and enhances immunity against multiple diseases with a single shot. By ensuring your vaccinations are current, you can protect yourself and your community from these potentially life-threatening infections. We want to encourage adults who have not received a booster vaccine in the past ten years to get vaccinated. We also recommend that pregnant women be vaccinated to protect both mother and child against these preventable diseases,” adds Sr Nazmeera.