10 Manila kids dead from diphtheria

A high-ranking official of the Manila Health Department (MHD) confirmed yesterday the death of 10 children due to diphtheria, with a 10-year-old boy in Sta Ana, Manila reported as its latest victim.

Dr. Edgar Santos of the MHD said the boy had been suffering from fever for a number of days and had an inflamed throat, which are common signs of diphtheria. He was brought to Sta. Ana Hospital last Friday where he reportedly died.

Although there had been no conclusive study or examination to conclude the boy died of diphtheria, Santos called on all parents to have their children vaccinated against the disease.

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that affects the throat, tongue, and nose. It is spread from person to person, through respiratory droplets, like from coughing or sneezing. In extreme cases, toxins released by the diphtheria bacteria can affect the heart, nerves and kidneys.

Meanwhile, Department of Health (DoH) medical specialist Anthony Calibo said there were also reported cases of diphtheria in other regions, including the Cordillera Administrative Region.

Calibo confirmed the DoH’s lack of anti-toxins in treating throat infections like diphtheria.