Diphtheria (dif-THEER-e-uh) is a serious bacterial infection that usually affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. Diphtheria is extremely rare in the United States and other developed countries thanks to widespread vaccination against the disease.
What are the dangers of diphtheria?
The bacteria produce toxins that cause an abnormal membrane to grow in the throat, which can lead to suffocation. Other dangerous complications include paralysis and heart failure if the toxins spread throughout the body. Around 10 per cent of people exposed to diphtheria die from the disease.
When the bacteria get into the respiratory system they can cause sore throat, mild fever, and swollen glands in the neck. The bacteria make a toxin that kills healthy tissues in the respiratory system and can make it difficult to breathe and swallow.
What is the main cause of diphtheria?
Diphtheria is an acute disease caused by toxin-producing strains of Corynebacterium diphtheriae (in some cases also by Corynebacterium ulcerans) bacteria, that is known to colonise mucous membranes.
How to avoid diphtheria?
Widespread immunisation against diphtheria is the only effective control. The diphtheria vaccine is administered through the National Immunisation ProgramME. The first dose of diphtheria vaccine, in combination with other vaccines, is now recommended to be given at 6 weeks of age.
What is the best treatment for diphtheria?
Antibiotics, such as penicillin or erythromycin, help kill bacteria in the body, clearing up infections. Antibiotics lessen the time that someone with diphtheria is contagious. An antitoxin. If a doctor suspects diphtheria, he or she will request a medication that counteracts the diphtheria toxin in the body.
If it’s left untreated, it can cause severe damage to your kidneys, nervous system, and heart. It’s fatal in about 3 percent of cases.
