Diphtheria, an acute infectious disease caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae and Corynebacterium ulcerans, has seen an unusual increase in cases in several European countries, mainly among migrants and vulnerable groups such as the homeless. An epidemic was reported in late April 2022 in Germany, and genetic analysis of strains indicates transmission along migration routes to Europe. The disease causes respiratory and skin symptoms, with mortality rates up to 10%. Vaccination is an effective preventive measure, but some unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals still contract the disease. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) warns of the need for caution and rapid response to prevent further spread of diphtheria in Europe.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets emphasize the humanitarian aspect of the diphtheria outbreak, focusing on the vulnerability of migrants and marginalized groups such as the homeless. They highlight the need for increased public health support, vaccination campaigns, and social services to protect these populations. The narrative often stresses the importance of solidarity and inclusive healthcare policies to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Center: Center-leaning sources report the diphtheria outbreak with a focus on public health facts and the epidemiological data. They emphasize the importance of vaccination and rapid response by health authorities to contain the outbreak. The coverage is balanced, highlighting both the risks posed by the disease and the effectiveness of preventive measures, without politicizing the issue.
Right: Right-leaning media tend to focus on the role of migration in the spread of diphtheria, often linking the outbreak to recent migrant flows into Europe. They emphasize the risks posed by unvaccinated migrants and the need for stricter border controls and immigration policies. The narrative may also stress the responsibility of migrants to comply with vaccination requirements and the potential public health threat they pose.
