249 ampoules of diphtheria antitoxin, received within the framework of cooperation between the Ministry of Health and the WHO, were distributed among the regions of the country
Ukraine has received 249 ampoules of diphtheria antitoxin as part of the cooperation between the Ministry of Health of Ukraine and the World Health Organization. The diphtheria antitoxin was delivered to all regions. It is critical for preventing life-threatening damage to the upper respiratory tract, heart and nervous systems during treatment.
“In the absence of vaccination or refusal to vaccinate against diphtheria, the severity of the disease will play a key role. The antitoxin does not cure the infection, but it is a key tool to prevent toxic damage to the body during the treatment of patients in medical facilities. Vaccination of children and revaccination of adults remains the primary step to prevent the severe consequences of this disease, and the vaccine is free and available in all oblasts. That is why it is important for both adults and children to check their vaccination status and get revaccinated if they miss the schedule.”
“The WHO Office in Ukraine continues to provide medical institutions with the necessary immunobiological products to fight dangerous diseases. Timely assistance to patients with the use of diphtheria antitoxin and antibiotics helps prevent the development of complications. I emphasize that the disease is not a contraindication to further vaccination. Anyone who has had diphtheria should be vaccinated after the acute phase of the disease is over.”
The distribution, taking into account the need for diphtheria antitoxin in the regions, was carried out by specialists from the Public Health Center of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine. Diphtheria vaccination is recommended in Ukraine to prevent and protect immunity. Vaccinations are provided free of charge to children and adults in accordance with the National Vaccination Schedule. After the last vaccination according to the calendar at the age of 16, revaccination is recommended every 10 years. Thus, the first revaccination is carried out at the age of 26 and then every 10 years. The vaccine is currently available in all regions of the country. Vaccination is free of charge and can be done at vaccination centers in hospitals by making an appointment with a family doctor.
For reference: diphtheria is an acute infectious disease that affects mainly the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract and skin, forming characteristic films that can cause serious complications. Airborne droplets transmit it. The incubation period of the disease is 3-10 days. The bacterium enters the human body through the respiratory tract, where it begins to secrete a toxin that enters the bloodstream and affects various organs, most often the heart, nervous system, and kidneys. Even with timely treatment, about 20% of unvaccinated patients die.