The Ministry of Health has asked Bac Giang and Nghe An authorities to take drastic measures against the spread of diphtheria.
The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention of the northern province of Bac Giang confirmed a second diphtheria case of a 29-year-old woman. She had close contact with Bac Giang's first diphtheria patient, an 18-year old woman.
Under the Ministry of Health’s instructions, for people suspected to have contracted diphtheria, the health sector of Nghe An and Bac Giang needs to consult with higher levels to prioritise early use of diphtheria antitoxin serum.
It is essential to conduct training on diagnosing and treating diphtheria for all medical facilities to promptly detect suspected cases.
Medical facilities are asked to select antibiotics in line with the Ministry of Health’s guidelines for the treatment of suspected people along with conducting tests.
According to the Ministry of Health, localities need to prepare quarantine areas, and medical equipment, materials and disinfectants for the treatment.
Healthcare workers need to wear masks and wash hands as disease prevention measures.
The first diphtheria patient in Bac Giang came into close contact with the patient in Nghe A who died of the disease on July 5.
Source: dtinews.vn