PETALING JAYA: The Health Ministry has reported its first diphtheria case among adults after a housewife was diagnosed with the disease two days ago.

The 41-year-old housewife had sought treatment at the Rembau health clinic on July 13, and complained of swollen tonsils, cracked voice and difficulty swallowing.

Health Ministry director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said the patient was referred to the Tuanku Jaafar Hospital, and was later kept in an isolation ward for treatment.

“The patient’s condition is stable, and a test on July 16 confirmed her positive for diphtheria.

“This is a sporadic and isolated case, and treatment has been given to those in contact with her, including family members and hospital staff,” he said in a statement.

This latest case brings the total number of cases to 15, with five fatalities recorded – one in Malacca, one in Kedah and three in Sabah.

On the same day, the Universiti Sains Malaysia hospital reported a suspected diphtheria case, where the patient was an eight year old boy with fever and throat pains.

“He also had swelling on his face and neck. Lab test results have not been obtained yet.

“The patient is in stable condition and has been given anti-toxin treatment,” said Dr Noor Hisham.

He called on parents to ensure children under seven years old had proper immunisation, which provides optimal protection for children.