diphtheria

Diphtheria is an acute respiratory infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheria. Diphtheria exotoxin is the main pathogenic factor. Its clinical features are mucous membrane congestion, swelling and gray-white pseudomembrane formation in the pharynx, larynx, and nose, as well as symptoms of systemic poisoning caused by bacterial exotoxin. Severe cases may have toxic myocarditis and peripheral nerve paralysis. The disease has a worldwide distribution, and it can occur in all seasons, with more in autumn and winter. Diphtheria toxoid vaccination has been widely implemented in China, and morbidity and mortality have been significantly reduced. It is only occasionally distributed in people who have not been immunized or who are not fully immunized.