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What are the symptoms of diphtheria?

Diphtheria symptoms show up one to 10 days after the infection and can include fever and chills, bluish skin color, breathing difficulties, barking cough, drooling, hoarseness, swollen lymph nodes, a sore throat, painful swallowing, a runny nose and a grey-colored membrane growth at the back of the throat.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is diphtheria?

Diphtheria is an infectious, potentially fatal illness.

What causes diphtheria?

Diphtheria is an illness caused by infection with Corynebacterium diphtheriae bacteria. The bacteria infect the airways and multiply there, and release a dangerous toxin that may cause damage to major organs of the body.

Who gets diphtheria?

Anyone can get diphtheria. People at increased risk are unvaccinated people, children, people in areas where the disease is still found and people with weakened immune systems.

How is diphtheria diagnosed?

Diphtheria is initially diagnosed by the symptoms. A final diagnosis is made by testing throat swabs and/or skin samples.

How is diphtheria treated?

Diphtheria is treated with diphtheria antitoxin to neutralize the toxin and with antibiotics to get rid of the bacteria.

Can diphtheria be cured?

If treated promptly, diphtheria can be cured in most cases.

How is diphtheria spread?

Diphtheria is spread by droplets spread into the air by sneezing and coughing.

Can diphtheria be prevented?

Diphtheria can be effectively prevented by vaccination.

Is diphtheria serious?

Diphtheria is a serious and potentially fatal disease. Some cases are mild, but the disease kills about one in 10 people who get it, and one in five children.

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 03 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 14 May 2019
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Votes: 1468 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Cholera

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