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Non-toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae in a boarding school
Lancet (London, England)
|May 3, 1975
Summary
A non-toxigenic strain of Corynebacterium diphtheriae caused a sore throat outbreak in a boarding school. Management included isolation and antibiotic treatment for all affected boys, despite the bacteria not producing diphtheria toxin.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- An outbreak of sore throats occurred at a boarding school.
- The causative agent was identified as a non-toxigenic strain of Corynebacterium diphtheriae var. gravis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the management of a sore throat outbreak caused by a non-toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
- To discuss the rationale behind the implemented control measures.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of Corynebacterium diphtheriae var. gravis from affected individuals.
- Administration of antibiotics to all boys at the school.
- Implementation of restrictions until no further carriers were detected.
Main Results:
- 31 boys were identified as carriers of the non-toxigenic strain.
- Antibiotic treatment and isolation measures were employed.
- The outbreak was controlled, and restrictions were lifted after no new carriers emerged.
Conclusions:
- Management strategies for non-toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae outbreaks involve conventional isolation and antibiotic treatment.
- The study highlights the importance of managing even non-toxigenic strains to prevent transmission and potential complications.
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