Diphtheria Risk: Who is Most Vulnerable?

The most susceptible people to diphtheria are:

- Unvaccinated children and adults: People who have not been vaccinated against diphtheria or those whose immunity has waned over time are at the greatest risk of contracting the disease.

- People with weakened immune systems: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or transplant recipients, are more likely to develop severe symptoms of diphtheria.

- Infants and young children: Infants and young children are more susceptible to diphtheria because their immune systems are not fully developed.

- People living in close quarters: People living in close quarters, such as in dormitories or military barracks, are at increased risk of contracting diphtheria because the bacteria can spread easily through close contact.

- People who travel to areas where diphtheria is common: Travelers who visit countries where diphtheria is common are at increased risk of contracting the disease if they are not vaccinated.