Diphtheria

Coloured TEM of Corynebacterium bacteria. © Science Photo Library

Diphtheria is a disease caused by bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae and Corynebacterium ulcerans. It can cause respiratory symptoms or non-respiratory forms that affect other parts of the body, including the skin.

An effective vaccine is available against diphtheria and mass immunisation has led to the reduction in the number of cases in Europe.

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