Diphtheria

Diphtheria is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, classified as a Class B infectious disease. It is most common in children under 15 years of age and is a very serious bacterial infection that was once a major cause of illness and death in children. The disease is mainly characterized by the appearance of white pseudomembranes in the pharynx, tonsils, and surrounding tissues, as well as symptoms of systemic toxemia. In severe cases, it can be complicated by myocarditis and peripheral neuritis.