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 diptheria infection. Tdap and Td vaccines are
booster shots that give continued protection to adolescents and adults.
Last Updated:April 14, 2009
Author:Monica Rhodes
Medical Review:William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine & W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease