Key facts

Diphtheria is a highly contagious infection that primarily affects the mouth, nose and throat, and sometimes the skin

It is caused by a bacteria that produces a toxin which can damage the heart and nerves

Diphtheria is a vaccine-preventable disease, but multiple doses are needed to maintain immunity

Without proper treatment, diphtheria can be fatal in around 30 per cent of cases, with young children at higher risk

Diphtheria has been rare in the UK since routine vaccinations were introduced in 1942 – although there is a small risk of catching it while travelling

Overview

Diphtheria is a contagious disease caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae . It spreads through coughs and sneezes, or by close contact with an infected individual.…