How do you get diphtheria?

Diphtheria bacteria may spread from an infected person when they cough, sneeze, or have close face-to-face contact. Contact with saliva, nasal secretions, or fluid from a skin sore can also transmit bacteria. Some people have mild or early infection and may still pass it on. The bacteria can settle in the nose or throat, or infect broken skin; toxin production is what can make the illness dangerous.

Getting bacteria into the body does not mean a person will develop severe disease. Immunisation helps the immune system respond to the toxin, so checking vaccine status is useful after a possible exposure.

Call a clinician promptly if you had close contact with someone diagnosed with diphtheria, especially if your vaccination history is uncertain. Describe the contact, any travel, and whether you have throat symptoms or skin sores. Follow instructions about testing, antibiotics, and avoiding close contact. Do not share drinks, cutlery, towels, or personal items. Further reading: [Sore Throat](/symptoms/sore-throat/), [Antibiotic Treatment](/treatments/medical-management/antibiotic-treatment/), and [Childhood Immunisation](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/childhood-immunisation/).

Get emergency help for difficult or noisy breathing, inability to swallow, drooling, rapidly worsening neck swelling, fainting, or severe weakness. Arrange same-day medical advice for a persistent sore throat, a throat coating, or a healing-resistant skin ulcer after a relevant exposure. Keep distance from vulnerable household members while waiting for clinical guidance.

Ask whether you need testing, preventive antibiotics, a booster or catch-up immunisation, and advice for people who share your home. Clarify when you can safely return to work, school, or close social contact.