Diphtheria

A serious bacterial infection of the throat that can block breathing and damage the heart. It's prevented by vaccination.

InfectionChildrenLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Sore throat, fever, a thick grey coating in the throat, swollen neck ('bull neck') and difficulty breathing.

Common Treatments

Emergency hospital treatment with diphtheria antitoxin and antibiotics.

Risk Factors

Not being vaccinated or incomplete vaccination.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which produces a toxin. It still occurs in India among unvaccinated children.

Vaccination (DTP) protects, and boosters are needed.

Symptoms

Sore throat

And fever.

Grey throat coating

A thick membrane.

Swollen neck

Bull neck.

Breathing difficulty

Emergency.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

Infection with toxin-producing Corynebacterium diphtheriae.

Key Risk Factors

  • Not vaccinated Main risk.
  • Crowding Close contact.
  • Age Children.

Management & Treatment

01. Antitoxin

Neutralises the toxin.

02. Antibiotics

Kill the bacteria.

03. Vaccination

Of patient and contacts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is diphtheria still around?
Yes, where vaccination is incomplete.
How is it prevented?
DTP vaccines and boosters.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.