An estimated 15 have been affected by the highly contagious—and preventable—disease.

Diphtheria has claimed two children and affected an estimated 15 in Shan State, doctors said.

Head of Hsipaw Township’s public hospital Dr. Nanda Win told SHAN that the disease has been spreading in the area where the northern and southern regions of Shan State meet.

“Diphtheria has spread in the area since October. There are 15 patients affected. […] Two children who were under 15 years old have already died,” she said.

While the illness has not spread within Hsipaw, patients with diphtheria from Namtu and Mong Kung townships have sought care at Hsipaw’s hospital this month.

“We transferred a patient from Mong Kung to Mandalay. The patient passed away while traveling to Mandalay. The patient likely had diphtheria,” Dr. Nanda Win said.

Health workers have been administering vaccines in areas affected by the disease, as well as in Namlan Township, south of Hsipaw.

Diptheria, which is highly contagious and caused by bacteria, affects the respiratory system. The symptoms include a sore throat, trouble swallowing, a fever, and dark mucous in the throat.

“It’s a dangerous disease. It can affect people of different ages. If children under 15 are affected, it’s very dangerous for them. The best way [to prevent it] is to get vaccinations,” Dr. Nanda Win said.

In Burma, infants are entitled to immunizations against tetanus, yellow fever, Hepatitis B, and Type B Influenza, but must have access to a clinic to obtain the vaccines.