Diphtheria surveillance

Abstract

Diphtheria is uncommon in developed countries but when cases do arise they are often severe with high mortality. This disease has demonstrated its potential to re-emerge to epidemic proportions in areas where it was previously thought to be under control. Ongoing monitoring and surveillance is therefore essential and in general follows the principles of surveillance utilised for most other vaccine preventable infections, but with some specific adaptations relevant to a disease that is close to elimination. Surveillance across countries and regions is complicated by a number of factors including the use of different case definitions and the variation in laboratory policy and expertise. International networks have been valuable in improving knowledge and skills in this area.