Epidemiology and clinical profile of suspected diphtheria cases in the Governorate of Ibb, Yemen: a 6-year retrospective analysis (2020-2025).

OBJECTIVES

This analysis aimed to evaluate the overall epidemiological situation of diphtheria in Ibb Governorate over 6 years (2020-2025).

METHODS

This retrospective descriptive epidemiological study reviewed diphtheria cases recorded in the epidemiological surveillance database. The data were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 721 suspected diphtheria cases, the highest case counts were among females (470; 65.2%), individuals aged 10-19 years (202; 28.0%), in autumn (235; 32.6%), and individuals with an unknown vaccination history (488; 67.7%). The cumulative incidence over 6 years was 21.5 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, with the highest rates observed among females (27.0), individuals aged 20-29 years (27.0), in 2023 (4.9), and in Yarim District (106.6). Additionally, the overall case fatality rate was 4.2% (30 deaths), with more deaths among females (17), individuals aged <10 years (18), and individuals with an unknown vaccination history (25).

CONCLUSION

The continued rise in diphtheria cases in the study area could pose a significant public health challenge, particularly given the fragile health system. Therefore, strengthening early detection, expanding vaccination coverage, improving healthcare services, and intensifying awareness campaigns are essential measures to control this epidemic.