Investigations and control measures following a non-travel-associated case of toxigenic Cornyebacterium diphtheriae, London, United Kingdom, December 2009-January 2010

Abstract

This article reports the investigation and control measures undertaken following the identification of a toxigenic strain of Cornyebacterium diphtheriae var gravis, designated ribotype Minsk , in a partially vaccinated teenager born in the United Kingdom with no recent history of travel or known contact with a case of diphtheria or a carrier. This case highlights the need for ongoing work to improve vaccine uptake rates to ensure children receive all scheduled vaccinations.