Event Details

In September 2024, a case of zoonotic cutaneous diphtheria caused by toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae was identified in a donkey in Ontario, Canada. Laboratory testing confirmed the presence and expression of the diphtheria toxin gene. Due to the potential of animal to human transmission, a public health investigation ensued, and identified seven human close contacts who were offered post-exposure prophylaxis. Fortunately, none tested positive for C. diphtheriae. This case highlights the importance of a coordinated One Health approach involving both animal and public health sectors in managing emerging and re-emerging zoonotic infections. It also exposed legislative gaps that delayed public health action due to limitations in accessing personal health information needed for timely interventions. Enhanced disease surveillance, along with clearer protocols for reporting and information sharing across sectors, is essential to reduce the risk of future zoonotic outbreaks and protect public health.

Dr. Chidubem Ekpereamaka Okechukwu, MBBS, MPH, CCFP is a resident physician in public health and preventive medicine at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine University, where she also completed her Family Medicine residency. She earned her medical degree from the University of Nigeria, College of Medicine, and holds a Master of Public Health from the University of British Columbia. Her professional interests include occupational medicine, infectious disease management, and rural health.

Dr. Colin Lee, MD, MSc, CCFP(EM), FRCPC is an Associate Medical Officer of Health at the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit. His primary responsibilities are in infectious disease prevention and control, immunization and sexual health. He is a graduate of the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. He is an adjunct professor at the University of Toronto Dalla Lana School of Public Health. He had the opportunity to serve part-time at Public Health Ontario as a public health physician in communicable disease control from 2009 to 2013.

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