title: [Diphtheria, an imported disease].
abstract: A comparative analysis of 4256 persons living in the Federal Republic of Germany and 4751 applicants for asylum in the FRG allows the conclusion that in the FRG diphtheria is caused by imported toxinogenic strains, originating mostly from developing countries. Since 1975 a total of 109 cases have been observed, 22 ending in death. Such severe cases can be avoided by systematic revaccination even of adults.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002353:Carrier State; D002648:Child; D003353:Corynebacterium diphtheriae / Q000472:pathogenicity; D003906:Developing Countries; D004165:Diphtheria / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D004168:Diphtheria Toxoid / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D005860:Germany, West; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male
chemical_list: D004168:Diphtheria Toxoid
vernacular_title: Die Diphtherie, eine Importkrankheit.