Diphtheria prevention and control

Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial infection that can affect the throat and produce a toxin. Immunisation prepares the immune system before exposure, while control measures protect close contacts when infection is suspected. A grey or white coating in the throat, severe sore throat, swollen neck or breathing difficulty needs prompt clinical attention; see our guide to [Sore Throat].

A clinician may arrange testing and advise the person to avoid close contact until they are no longer considered infectious. Household or other close contacts may need assessment, preventive medicine or an immunisation review.

Check that children and adults are up to date with recommended diphtheria-containing vaccines; our [Childhood Immunisation] guide explains why scheduled doses matter. Do not share utensils, drinks or personal items with someone who may be infected, and wash hands after coughing, sneezing or caring for them.

Follow isolation and medication instructions exactly. Antibiotics can help clear the bacteria, but they should be selected and taken under medical supervision; read about [Antibiotic Treatment].

Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, noisy breathing, inability to swallow saliva, rapidly increasing neck swelling, faintness or unusual weakness. Contact a clinician promptly for a persistent sore throat with a throat coating, fever, or known close contact with diphtheria, even if symptoms seem mild.

Ask whether vaccination records are complete, whether close contacts need testing or preventive treatment, how long to avoid contact with others, and which symptoms should trigger emergency help.