diphtheria
an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae and commonest in childern. The infection causes a membranous lining on the throat, which can interfere with breathing and eating. The toxin produced by the bacterium damages HEART tissue and the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM and can be fatal if not treated. The infection is countered by injection of antitoxin with PENICILLIN or ERYTHROMYCIN given to kill the bacterium. It can be prevented by VACCINATION .
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection. You can catch it from a person who has the infection and coughs or sneezes. You can also get infected by coming in contact with an object, such as a toy, that has bacteria on it.
Diphtheria usually affects the nose and throat. Symptoms include:
- Sore throat
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Fever
- Weakness
Your doctor will diagnose it based on your signs and symptoms and a lab test. Getting treatment for diphtheria quickly is important. If your doctor suspects that you have it, you'll start treatment before the lab tests come back. Treatment is with antibiotics.
The diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus vaccine can prevent diphtheria, but its protection does not last forever. Children need another dose, or booster, at about age 12. Then, as adults, they should get a booster every 10 years. Diphtheria is very rare in the United States because of the vaccine.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
diphtheria