IOM Bangladesh: Rohingya Refugee Crisis Response - Diphtheria Response Plan (17 December 2017)

The first cases of Diphtheria are thought to have occurred on 8 November 2017. Since then, there has been an increase in suspected cases centred around Balukhali camp, but also spreading throughout camps in Ukhiya and Teknaf. As of 15th December, the total number of cases is as follows: 1,326 suspected cases since 8th November; 141 new patients on 15th December; 19 deaths reported; 76% of reported cases under 15 years old; Cases reported across several camps, including in Teknaf; Under-reporting expected due to low health-seeking behavior among the population, potential misdiagnosis of mumps and limited visibility on clear case definition