Diphtheria

Overview

Diphtheria is rare in the U.S. because of vaccines but still occurs worldwide.

A thick gray coating can form in the throat.

It's rare in the U.S. because of vaccines.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Trouble breathing
• Gray throat coating
• Sore throat

Less common

• Swollen neck
• Hoarseness

When to get medical care

Causes

Bacteria.

Does it spread or run in families?

• Yes, it can spread from person to person.
• How it spreads: coughs or sneezes.
• Washing hands often and staying home when sick help protect others.

Who is more likely to get it

• Unvaccinated

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Swab:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Call 911
• Rest

Prevention

To lower your risk or catch problems early:

• Vaccines
• Booster shots every 10 years

Which doctor treats this

• Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
• They may send you to an infectious disease specialist, for hard-to-treat infections.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Stay home until you've had no fever for 24 hours without fever medicine and you're feeling better.
• For the next 5 days, wash hands often and wear a mask around others.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Travelers: Make sure vaccines are up to date.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Antitoxin and antibiotics treat it.

Treatment saves most.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Diphtheria