Primary prevention
Vaccination for diphtheria has reduced the incidence in developed countries. The recorded incidence of epiglottitis in the US declined between 1980 and 1990. These epidemiological changes have been ascribed to the introduction of the Hib vaccination.[7]
Preventive drug therapy for asymptomatic infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis is used in some countries, notably the US, where tuberculosis is uncommon and where the BCG vaccine is not administered. See Pulmonary tuberculosis.
Secondary prevention
Prophylactic antibiotics should be given to close contacts of any individual with diphtheria.[27] People who have not completed the full vaccination regimen for diphtheria, or those in whom the history of vaccination is unclear, should complete their vaccination schedule.
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