What is diphtheria caused by?

Answer 1

It is caused by the anaerobic bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae.

It may be spread by direct physical contact or through breathing air around infected people.

Answer 2

Diphtheria is a contagious disease spread by direct physical contact or breathing the aerosolized secretions of infected individuals. Symptoms include fatigue, fever, a mild sore throat and problems swallowing. Children infected have symptoms that include nausea, vomiting, chills, and a high fever, although some do not show symptoms until the infection has progressed further. (Wikipedia)

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