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Diphtheria

  Just The Facts
What is Diphtheria?
  • An infection caused by bacteria . These bacteria produce a toxin, which kills the cells lining the throat and nose. This causes breathing problems. The toxin may also cause damage to the heart, nerves and kidneys, causing life-threatening problems.
  • Diphtheria can be prevented by vaccination .
  • Diphtheria is treated with an injection of antitoxin (a medication that blocks the effects of the bacteria). This treatment must be started as soon as possible to reduce possible damage to the heart.
  • Antibiotics are also given to stop the spread of infection.
 
What are the signs and symptoms of Diphtheria?
  • Most often infects the nose and throat interfering with breathing. May also cause skin and/or ear infections.
  • Usually begins with a sore throat, fever and loss of appetite.  Within a day or two, the child experiences severe throat pain and becomes very weak. Breathing becomes very difficult and the skin may start to look bluish in colour from the lack of oxygen.
 
How is Diphtheria spread?
  • Diphtheria is spread through close direct contact between people or through the air when an infected person talks, coughs or sneezes.
 
What can parents do?
  • Check your child’s immunization record to see if he/she has had the diphtheria vaccine, and if their immunization history is up to date. Diphtheria vaccine is given at 2, 4, 6 and 18 months and again at school entry and every 10 years after that.
  • Watch for signs and symptoms of Diphtheria.
  • Encourage your child to wash their hands with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing or wiping their nose and before eating or preparing food.
  • Teach your child to cover his/her mouth when coughing or sneezing and to not share food, drink or eating utensils with others.
 

Diphtheria is a reportable disease and must be reported to the Local Medical Officer of Health. The Medical Officer of Health will decide when a child with Diphtheria is allowed to return to school.

 
If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Health Information Line
at the Brant County Health Unit 519-753-4937 extension 259
 
 
Adapted from Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health  |  Revised 08/2009
Last Updated ( Wednesday, 14 October 2009 )