More diphtheria cases discovered in the asylum center – Salzburg
After the isolation of hundreds of residents of an asylum center in Bergheim, a total of 12 diphtheria cases have now been confirmed.
Diphtheria, against which men are actually vaccinated as children, has been on the rise again in Europe for a number of years. There have already been around 17 cases in Austria, with one person even star. The bacterium is transmitted via droplets and close contact.
Diphtheria cases in Austria – what you need to know now >>
Last week it became known that three of these cases have currently occurred in an asylum center in Salzburg. The infected were isolated in the asylum home and were not allowed to leave it. 319 residents of the district had to undergo a smear test in order to be able to rule out or isolate further cases – “Today” reported.
Hundreds of residents isolated
As a result, the total number of cases increased, of which six are so-called pharyngeal diphtheria and four are skin diphtheria. People who have tested positive are isolated and have their own room in their quarters. In addition, according to the health authority, comprehensive measures have been taken. For example, the distribution of food or the use of the toilets is staggered in order to prevent further infections as best as possible.
The medical care of the affected persons is secured, among other things, the vaccination is now granted, according to the state of Salzburg. Medication is plentiful. In addition, the situation is being closely monitored and continuously tested.
Number of cases rises to 12
Those tests revealed two more cases of diphtheria as of Tuesday afternoon. This is skin diphtheria. As of Friday, October 14, 2022, a total of twelve diphtheria cases have been confirmed. The situation is continuously monitored.