Diphtheria: A silent danger from respiratory tract infection

Browse By

Diphtheria is another silent danger of respiratory infection. That is very frightening. Because it is easily transmitted. This disease can occur in both children and adults who have insufficient immunity to diphtheria. Patients with severe symptoms or complications may be at risk of becoming paralyzed or dying.

What causes diphtheria?

Caused by infection with the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheria in the respiratory system, which has 2 strains: Toxogenic strain and Non-Toxogenic strain.  ufabet https://ufabet999.app  If it is a Toxogenic strain, it will result in inflammation and a thick membrane will form inside the throat or trachea, causing obstruction of the airway. If there are severe complications, it may result in paralysis and death. 

Symptoms of diphtheria 

  • Have a low fever, similar to a cold. 
  • Sore throat , severe cough
  • Anorexia, difficulty swallowing, fatigue
  • There are gray patches that are firmly attached to the throat. Tonsils, nasal cavity, larynx, etc.
  • Headache , chills
  • In older children, symptoms similar to pharyngitis may occur.
  • Some people will experience swollen lymph nodes in their neck.
  • In patients with severe symptoms, airway obstruction may occur, leading to suffocation and death.

Incubation period

The incubation period for diphtheria is approximately 2-5 days, or may be longer. A person will have the virus in their body for approximately 2 weeks if they do not receive treatment. However, if they do receive treatment, the virus will disappear within 1 week.


Diphtheria transmission

Drink from the same glass

Diphtheria germs are found in the nose or throat of an infected person. And those infected do not show any symptoms. The disease can be easily spread through coughing, sneezing. Or close conversation with an infected person. Sometimes, it can be spread through sharing containers. With an infect person, such as toys or drinking glasses, etc. 

Complications of diphtheria

  • Myocarditis can lead to a heart attack.
  • Nerve endings become inflamed, which results in muscle paralysis.
  • Airway obstruction, resulting in difficulty breathing, lung infection, etc.