Do I Have Diphtheria?

Have you been vaccinated against diphtheria?

Have you been vaccinated with any of the fallowing vaccines: DTaP (protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis), DT (protects against diphtheria and tetanus), Tdap (protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) or Td (protects against tetanus and diphtheria)?

Have you recently traveled to areas with reported diphtheria outbreaks (Asia, the South Pacific, the Middle East, Eastern Europe and the Caribbean)?

Do you have a thick grey-white coating at the back of your throat?

Do you have a high temperature (fever) of 38C or above?

Do you have a sore throat or a loud, barking cough?

Do you have a headache?

Do you have weakness, and a general feeling of uneasiness or discomfort?

Do you have swollen glands in your neck?

Do you have difficulty breathing and swallowing?

Do you have pus-filled blisters on your legs, feet and hands?

Do you have large ulcers surrounded by red, sore-looking skin?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have diphtheria. Diphtheria is a rare but serious bacterial infection caused by strains of bacteria called Corynebacterium diphtheriae. The bacteria usually affect the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, causing a thick, gray coating to form in these areas. The bacteria release toxins into the bloodstream, which can cause serious health problems. Nowadays, diphtheria is rare in the US and Europe, because children are routinely vaccinated against diphtheria. However, diphtheria is very common in areas with low immunization rates. The best way to protect yourself from diphtheria while traveling is to be completely vaccinated against it.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have diphtheria. Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by bacteria known as Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It usually affects your nose and throat, but sometimes can also affect your skin. Diphtheria bacteria can be easily spread from person to person by airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing, or by touching infected open sores or ulcers. Occasionally, people can become infected through contaminated personal or household items such as used tissues or hand towels. A diagnosis is based on your medical history, a physical examination and laboratory tests. Treatment should start immediately if your doctor suspects diphtheria.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have diphtheria. Diphtheria is an infectious disease caused by a type of bacteria called Corinebacterium diphtheriae. The symptoms usually begin within 2 to 5 days after exposure. In some people, diphtheria bacteria cause only mild symptoms and people may be unaware of their illness. However, they can still transmit the infection to others. Diphtheria is a serious infection that must be treated promptly and aggressively. Treatment includes antibiotics and antitoxin. Antibiotics are primarily used to treat respiratory diphtheria infections. People who are treated with antibiotics are usually no longer contagious after 48 hours of starting treatment.