Y58: Bacterial vaccines

Y58.5: Diphtheria vaccine

The Diphtheria vaccine is an immunization shot used to prevent diphtheria, a serious bacterial infection. Diphtheria affects the mucous membranes of the throat and nose. Primarily spread through airborne droplets, it can cause severe difficulty in breathing and swallowing. Over time, the bacteria produce a toxin that can damage the heart, nerves, and kidneys. The diphtheria vaccine works by helping your body produce substances that resist the diphtheria toxin. It's typically given in combination with other vaccines, such as tetanus and pertussis. After the vaccine, some people might experience mild side effects like soreness or swelling where the shot was given, mild fever, or fatigue. Severe side effects are rare. If they do occur, they may include high fever, severe swelling where the shot was given, or serious allergic reactions.