Rarely, some persons can carry and spread the disease for up to six months. If treated with appropriate antibiotics, the contagious period can be limited to less than four days. Recovery from diphtheria is not always followed by lasting immunity. Certain antibiotics, such as Penicillin and Erythromycin may be effective to treat cases of diphtheria. If diphtheria disease is strongly suspected to be present, there is an anti-toxin which should be given immediately.
Diphtheria can cause serious complications such as paralysis, heart failure, and blood disorders.
One out of 10 cases of diphtheria is fatal. The single most effective control measure is being immunized properly against diphtheria and maintaining the highest possible immunization levels in the community. Other methods of control include prompt treatment of cases and a community surveillance program to identify the occurrence of the disease. Persons unsure of their immune status should consult their health care provider to determine necessary diphtheria immunizations. All persons should have an Immunization Record Card that documents when they received vaccination against diphtheria.