Diphtheria: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Diphtheria is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium *Corynebacterium diphtheriae*. It is spread through respiratory droplets or contact with infected surfaces. Symptoms can include fever, sore throat, swollen glands, difficulty breathing, and a thick, gray coating on the back of the throat. Diphtheria can be fatal if not treated early.