Health care providers, administrators, and clinical laboratory directors should report confirmed or suspect cases immediately to their Local Health Department by telephone.

Diphtheria is a severe respiratory disease that is caused by toxin-producing bacteria. The bacteria live in the mouth, nose and throat of an infected person and spread through coughing and sneezing. Diphtheria is a vaccine preventable disease.  Getting vaccinated against diphtheria will protect people from getting this disease. Before the vaccine was available, diphtheria was a common childhood illness.

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Diphtheria Vaccine Information for Parents [English][Spanish]

• CDC Clinical Guidance
• Key Questions When Suspecting Respiratory Diphtheria in a Patient
• CDC Diphtheria Worksheet 
• Diphtheria Antitoxin Eligibility

• CDC Diphtheria Prevention
• CDC Diphtheria Vaccination Information
• Immunization Action Coalition