About Diphtheria: A Disease That Refuses to Disappear
What is diphtheria?
Diphtheria is an acute infectious disease caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the upper respiratory tract, although it can also involve the skin. Its main characteristic is the formation of a grayish membrane in the throat that can make breathing difficult. In addition, the bacterium produces a toxin capable of affecting organs such as the heart and the nervous system, leading to severe complications and even death if timely treatment is not provided.
What is the history of diphtheria?
Diphtheria has been recognized since ancient times, although it was during the 18th and 19th centuries that it became one of the leading causes of childhood mortality in Europe and the Americas. Due to its frequent epidemics and high fatality rate, it was known as the “strangler of children.” In 1883, the German bacteriologist Edwin Klebs identified the bacterium responsible for the disease, later named Corynebacterium diphtheriae, and one year later Friedrich Löffler successfully isolated it in culture. By the end of the 19th century, diphtheria antitoxin was developed, significantly reducing mortality, and during the 1920s the diphtheria vaccine was introduced. Thanks to mass immunization programs implemented throughout the 20th century, the disease went from being a frequent cause of childhood death to a preventable and relatively uncommon disease in many countries around the world.
How is diphtheria transmitted?
From an epidemiological perspective, diphtheria has declined considerably in many countries thanks to vaccination programs. However, the disease continues to circulate in some regions of the world, and outbreaks may occur when vaccination coverage is low or access to healthcare services is limited. The World Health Organization has indicated that cases are mainly concentrated in populations with incomplete immunization schedules, particularly affecting children, although unvaccinated adolescents and adults may also become ill.
What are the signs and symptoms of diphtheria?
Diphtheria is an infectious disease that primarily affects the upper respiratory tract, and its clinical presentation can range from mild cases to severe, potentially life-threatening forms. Initial symptoms usually include low-grade fever, general malaise, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. One of the most characteristic signs is the appearance of a thick grayish membrane in the throat or on the tonsils, which may obstruct the airways and cause breathing difficulties. In addition, the bacterium produces a toxin that can spread throughout the body and lead to severe complications such as inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), neurological disorders, and damage to other organs. Early identification of symptoms and timely treatment are essential to reduce the risk of complications and mortality. Therefore, if diphtheria is suspected, medical attention should be sought immediately
How can diphtheria be prevented?
La principal medida de prevención contra la difteria es la vacunación. Las vacunas que contienen el componente antidiftérico forman parte de los esquemas regulares de inmunización infantil y requieren dosis de refuerzo durante la vida para mantener la protección. Adicionalmente, es importante fortalecer la vigilancia epidemiológica, promover la consulta temprana ante síntomas respiratorios sospechosos y garantizar altas coberturas de vacunación en toda la población. Estas acciones permiten prevenir casos, evitar brotes y reducir la mortalidad asociada a esta enfermedad prevenible.
Links of interest
Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects of Diphtheria: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis
Author
Gerhard M Acero
ESP epidemiologíst
Publication date: 15/06/2026
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