[Diphtheria epidemic in eastern Switzerland in 1974]

A diphtheria epidemic in the eastern part of Switzerland in 1974 and the measures which were taken for its management and eradication are described. In particular it is pointed out that at present diphtheria displays atypical clinical symptoms in Europe, a fact that renders the diagnosis very difficult in many cases. Therefore, it is important to perform a throat swab in every patient with suspected diphtheria; it is also necessary to explicitly require a search for C. diphtheriae. The early recognition and early treatment of diphtheria with penicillin or erythromycin is of the utmost importance in order to avoid neurological and cardiac complications. With regard to the management and eradication of a diphtheria epidemic, the most important measures are rapid antibiotic protection of all contacts and a widespread immunization of the population. Vaccination of adults with a DiTe vaccine containing a reduced amount of Di-toxoid is recommanded.