Miss May Irwin Obituary dated 18 December 1891 of Twenty Mile Stand, Warren County, Ohio died of Diphtheria. Daughter of William Harper Irwin and Livonia L. Crone.

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This image depicts poor hygienic practices as leading to diphtheria. In reality, diphtheria is usually spread via respiratory droplets, not via contaminated water. Harper's Weekly, v. 25, p. 36, January 15, 1881

Diphtheria

Last reviewed: December 15, 2010.

Diphtheria is an acute infectious disease caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Diphtheria spreads through respiratory droplets (such as those produced by a cough or sneeze) of an infected person or someone who carries the bacteria but has no symptoms. Diphtheria can also be spread by contaminated objects or foods (such as contaminated milk).

The bacteria most commonly infects the nose and throat. The throat infection causes a gray to black, tough, fiber-like covering, which can block the airways. In some cases, diphtheria may first infect the skin, producing skin lesions.

Once infected, dangerous substances called toxins, produced by the bacteria, can spread through your bloodstream to other organs, such as the heart, and cause significant damage.

Risk factors include crowded environments, poor hygiene, and lack of immunization.

Symptoms

Symptoms usually occur 2 to 5 days after you have come in contact with the bacteria.

• Bluish coloration of the skin

• Bloody, watery drainage from nose

• Breathing problems

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Rapid breathing

  • Stridor

• Chills

• Croup-like (barking) cough

• Drooling (suggests airway blockage is about to occur)

• Fever

• Hoarseness

• Painful swallowing

• Skin lesions (usually seen in tropical areas)

• Sore throat (may range from mild to severe)

Note: There may be no symptoms.