Diphtheria and pertussis: what to know

Diphtheria may begin with a sore throat and can form a thick coating in the throat. Its toxin can affect the heart and nerves. Pertussis usually causes a cough that comes in forceful bouts and may make breathing difficult, particularly in babies. The infections spread through close contact and respiratory droplets, but their symptoms are not identical.

Neither illness can be diagnosed reliably from a symptom alone. A clinician may use the history, examination and testing to decide what is most likely and whether close contacts need advice. Vaccination protects against both, although schedules and booster needs vary by age and circumstances.

Contact a clinician promptly for a severe sore throat with a coating, a persistent coughing illness, or known exposure to either infection. Keep away from vulnerable people until you receive advice, cover coughs and wash hands. Do not share cups or eating utensils.

Treatment depends on the infection, timing and clinical findings. Antibiotic treatment may be prescribed to treat diphtheria or pertussis and to reduce transmission, but it cannot undo toxin-related injury. Check vaccination records and ask about catch-up or booster doses when protection is uncertain.

Get emergency help for breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, inability to swallow saliva, severe throat swelling, collapse, or coughing bouts that stop normal breathing. Babies, pregnant people and those with weakened immunity need a low threshold for urgent assessment after a significant exposure.

Ask which infection is being considered, whether testing or antibiotics are needed, how long to avoid close contact, and whether your vaccination record needs updating.