The diphtheria bacillus, whose scientific name is Corynebacterium diphtheriae, is a gram-positive bacterium that causes the disease diphtheria. This disease is spread through droplets in the air and can lead to serious complications such as impaired breathing and heart function.
The diphtheria bacillus was first described in 1883 by bacteriologist Edmund Klebs and pathologist Friedrich Löffler while studying the causative agent of diphtheria. This bacterium is rod-shaped, stains gram-positive, and can produce a toxin that causes the symptoms of diphtheria.
Symptoms of diphtheria may include the throat, nose, skin, or sores on the skin. The illness may start with general symptoms such as fever and fatigue and then progress to more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing and heart failure. If you suspect diphtheria, you should consult a doctor and start treatment as early as possible.
To prevent diphtheria, vaccines are used that contain parts of the diphtheria bacillus or a toxin produced by this bacterium. Vaccination is considered the most effective way to prevent diphtheria.
In conclusion, diphtheria bacillus is the bacterium that causes diphtheria, a dangerous disease that can lead to serious complications. Diphtheria is prevented by vaccination, which must be carried out regularly. If you suspect diphtheria, see your doctor as soon as possible.