European health authorities monitor diphtheria and dermatophilosis

Health authorities are monitoring different bacterial threats across Europe. Experts emphasize the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to control diphtheria, an infectious disease caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. While rare in Italy and Europe due to immunization campaigns, the disease can cause severe damage to the heart and nervous system through toxins produced by the bacteria.

Separately, there is increasing attention regarding dermatophilosis, often called the ‘rain disease’. Caused by the bacterium Dermatophilus congolensis, this skin infection is primarily a veterinary issue affecting cattle and horses, but human cases are being observed. According to the ECDC, recent cases in ten European countries—including Austria, Denmark, France, Germany, and others—suggest that close physical contact between people may be a primary mode of transmission, alongside contact with contaminated surfaces or animals. As of late August, 123 infections have been recorded across these nations, though no cases have been reported in Italy.