Childhood Diseases and Illnesses
Diphtheria
Description/Symptoms
- An acute bacterial infection primarily affecting the nose and throat or skin.
- Symptoms can include general body weakness and discomfort, sore throat, loss of appetite, cough and low-grade fever (body temperature lower than 38.5 °C (about 101 °F ) Within 2 to 3 days, a bluish-white membrane forms on the tonsils or inside the nose.
- Contagiousness is variable but usually 2 weeks or less, seldom more than 4 weeks.
- Spread by direct contact with carriers and less commonly through contact with articles soiled with discharges from lesions of infected people.
- The period between being exposed to the infection and showing the first symptoms are usually 2 to 5 days, occasionally longer.
Instructions for Schools
- Report immediately to Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700.
- Child will be excluded in consultation with Peel Public Health.
- Encourage thorough hand washing and respiratory etiquette.
- Remember to protect the confidentiality of the student by not disclosing a diagnosis to concerned parents and/or colleagues. If contact follow up of those exposed is required Peel Public Health will contact those who are at risk.
Notes
- Vaccinations are given as part of the routine childhood immunization schedule and every 10 years as an adult.
- Refer to physician for diagnosis and treatment.
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