Diphtheria is a severe and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that primarily impacts the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, and in some cases, it can affect the skin as well. It is caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which produces a toxin capable of causing damage to various tissues and organs within the body.

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2. Diphtheria: A Potentially Life-
Threatening Infection
GS2: Public Health

3. Diphtheria
• Rishabh has written an article about Diphtheria. The soft
tissues of the nose, throat, and occasionally the skin are the
main targets of diphtheria, a serious and potentially fatal
bacterial illness.

4. About Diphtheria
• Severe bacterial infection primarily affecting mucous
membranes in the nose and throat.
• Caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which produces a
damaging toxin.

5. Symptoms
• Manifest within 2-5 days after exposure.
• Characterized by a greyish membrane in the
throat, hindering breathing and swallowing.
• Other symptoms include sore throat,
hoarseness, swollen neck glands, fever, nasal
discharge, cough, and fatigue.
• Some individuals may be asymptomatic
carriers.

6. • Can lead to severe complications:
• Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle).
• Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage and paralysis).
• Kidney problems.
• Bleeding problems due to reduced platelet levels.
Complications

7. HigherRiskGroups
• Higher fatality risk in children under 5 and adults over 60.
• Diagnosis
• Involves physical examinations and laboratory tests like throat
culture and Elek Test.
• Treatment
• Diphtheria Antitoxin neutralizes the bacterial toxin.
• Antibiotics like erythromycin and penicillin kill or inhibit bacteria.
• Hospital isolation and supportive care often required.

8. Prevention
• Vaccination: Diphtheria vaccine, usually given with tetanus and
pertussis (whooping cough) vaccines.
• Recommended at various ages, with booster doses every 10
years.
• Generally safe with mild side effects. Serious allergic reactions
are rare.

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