Diphtheria and fever

Fever is the body's response to infection and may occur with diphtheria, but it varies between people and can be less striking than the throat findings. A sore throat, tiredness, swollen neck glands and a grey or white membrane may occur together. The membrane can interfere with swallowing or breathing, while the bacterial toxin can later affect organs such as the heart and nerves. Fever also accompanies many other illnesses, so its presence does not identify diphtheria and its absence does not safely exclude it.

Take the person's temperature if this can be done safely, record when symptoms began, and seek prompt clinical advice when diphtheria is possible. Mention recent close contact, travel or vaccination gaps. Do not scrape a throat membrane or share drinks, utensils or towels. A clinician may recommend testing, antibiotics and contact precautions; information about [Antibiotic Treatment](/treatments/medical-management/antibiotic-treatment/) can help you understand one part of care. Check routine protection through [Childhood Immunisation](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/childhood-immunisation/).

Call emergency services for difficulty breathing, noisy breathing, drooling, inability to swallow fluids, rapidly increasing neck swelling, fainting, chest discomfort, blue lips or new weakness. Seek prompt medical review for fever with a persistent sore throat and a throat coating, especially after known exposure. A high temperature is not required for diphtheria to need attention.

Ask whether the fever pattern changes the need for testing, how to monitor breathing and swallowing, and whether close contacts need preventive care. Ask which fever medicines are suitable for the person's age and health conditions. For general throat symptom guidance, read [Sore Throat](/symptoms/sore-throat/).