Epidemiological Alert: Diphtheria in the Americas Region - 11 June 2026

Given the current situation, in which diphtheria vaccination coverage has remained below optimal levels in recent years, as well as the emergence of new cases in some countries of the Region, the Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) calls on Member States to close vaccination gaps and strengthen epidemiological surveillance of vaccine-preventable diseases, and reiterates the importance of strengthening routine immunization programs, microplanning strategies, catch-up vaccination, and follow-up to ensure vaccination, and to maintain a permanent supply of diphtheria antitoxin for the control of potential outbreaks.