Epidemic diphtheria in the Republic of Georgia, 1993-1996: risk factors for fatal outcome among hospitalized patients

Epidemic diphtheria reemerged in the republic of Georgia in November 1993. To identify risk factors for fatal outcomes, clinical and epidemiologic data on all hospitalized diphtheria patients were examined. Medical charts of patients from 1993-1995 were reviewed. A total of 659 cases and 68 deaths were identified (case fatality rate CFR] = 10.3%). Fifty-two percent of all cases and 68% of deaths were in children 3 days) between onset of symptoms to antitoxin treatment were significantly associated with fatal outcomes. Immunization of children and 40- to 49-year-old adults was required to rapidly control the epidemic.