Erie County Dept of Health
The Erie County Department of Health confirmed one travel-related case of diphtheria in October. We expect this individual to make a full recovery. Our case investigation identified schools within the West Seneca Central School District that had been potential exposure sites for this illness. After completing our investigation, Erie County Department of Health has determined that, at this time, there is an extremely minimal, i.e., near zero, risk to the community.
Based on an abundance of caution, we are working with West Seneca school district leadership to inform students, staff and families about the potential exposure that may have occurred. Notifications included instructions to watch for diphtheria symptoms through October 18, 2026; and, to ensure that students, staff, and their households are up to date on diphtheria vaccines (DTaP, Tdap/Td).
We are working with school nursing staff to review student immunization status and may make additional individual notifications to students who are under-vaccinated or unvaccinated.
A century ago, diphtheria was a common cause of illness and death among U.S. children. After universal childhood vaccination began in the 1940s, diphtheria is now incredibly rare and the community transmission risk for this case is extremely low, near zero.
Because of U.S. recommendations for routine vaccination with DTap and Tdap/Td, diphtheria is a well-controlled disease, with just 10 cases reported in the U.S. in the past 20 years. Families can work with their child’s primary care provider to assess their children’s vaccine status and determine if they are up to date with their diphtheria and all vaccines. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Vaccine for Children Program provides free vaccines to all uninsured or under-insured children so cost is not a barrier for any family.
