What causes diphtheria and what are its symptoms?

Diphtheria bacteria can spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or has close contact with another person. The toxin may injure tissues in the throat and other parts of the body. Symptoms can include sore throat, fever, tiredness, swollen neck glands, and difficulty swallowing. A grey or white coating or membrane in the throat can obstruct breathing and may bleed if disturbed.

Some people have mild illness or carry the bacteria without obvious symptoms. A sore throat has many possible causes, so a clinician must assess the full pattern and exposure history. Do not try to remove a throat membrane yourself.

Contact a clinician urgently if diphtheria is possible, keep distance from others, cover coughs, and do not share cups, utensils, or towels. Do not attend school or work until a clinician gives clear advice. Confirm whether household or close contacts need assessment, testing, preventive medicine, or vaccination. Treatment may include Antibiotic Treatment and other hospital care.

Call emergency services for noisy or difficult breathing, bluish lips, inability to swallow saliva, rapidly increasing neck swelling, confusion, fainting, or severe weakness. Prompt medical assessment is needed for a persistent sore throat with fever after close contact or travel to an area where diphtheria occurs.

Ask whether you need testing and isolation, which contacts require review, and whether your Childhood Immunisation record is up to date.