Diphtheria tonsillitis treatment: what to know

Tonsillitis can be caused by viruses or bacteria, including streptococcal infection. Diphtheria is a different bacterial illness in which a toxin can form a firm coating over the throat or tonsils. A sore throat, fever, swollen glands and earache can occur in several conditions, so symptoms alone cannot identify the cause. A clinician may inspect the mouth and neck, review immunisation and exposure, and take a swab.

Arrange a same-day clinical assessment when diphtheria is possible, and phone ahead so the service can advise on infection precautions. Avoid sharing food, drinks or toothbrushes, and follow instructions about staying away from school, work or close contacts. If antibiotics are prescribed, complete the course unless the prescriber changes it. Fluids and soft foods may be easier to manage, but do not delay care by treating a concerning coating as routine tonsillitis.

Call emergency services for breathing difficulty, drooling because swallowing is impossible, a muffled voice, rapidly enlarging neck swelling, severe dehydration, collapse or confusion. Seek prompt review for persistent fever, worsening throat pain, swollen glands or a coating that bleeds when disturbed. A person with tonsillitis symptoms may need urgent testing when diphtheria exposure or incomplete vaccination is possible.

Ask what findings make diphtheria more likely, whether a swab is needed, which treatment is appropriate, how to protect household contacts and whether vaccination needs updating.