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Diphtheria is a contagious illness caused by a type of bacteria. It can cause breathing and swallowing problems and can damage the heart and central nervous system (brain and spinal cord).
Diphtheria, though rare, can be fatal if not treated.
The DTaP (diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis) vaccine, given in childhood, protects against diphtheria infection. Tdap and Td vaccines are booster shots that give continued protection to teens and adults.
Current as of: October 31, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & W. David Colby IV MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease & Elizabeth T. Russo MD - Internal Medicine
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