Diphtheria is a specific infectious disease caused by a microbe known as Klebs-Loeffler bacillus. It is locally manifested by an intense inflammation of the throat, with constitutional symptoms, due to poison produced by the bacillus. Infection may occur by being near the patient, or may be carried by healthy persons to others. Many cases occur by relaxing rules of precaution after patients seem to be about well. The virus attaches itself to clothing, bedding and the room in which the patient has lived.

Symptoms

The period of incubation is from two to seven days. There is slight chilliness, aching pains in the body and limbs, followed by fever. Temperature usually rises to 103, and in severe cases 104, the first twenty-four hours.

In addition to the danger to life which the diphtheretic throat may cause, the kidneys are liable to be seriously affected, so that the diseases which result indirectly from the poisoned condition of the blood need to be carefully guarded against. The urine should be examined daily for kidney complications.

Diet

Diphtheria is the most malignant of the common diseases, and needs especial care in feeding. Plain ice cream without sugar is both nourishing and soothing to the throat. Repugnance to food is a bad diagnostic sign, and every effort possible must be made to overcome it, by offering a variety of flavors. Foods thickened with cream, beaten eggs, or gruels, will sometimes be more easily swallowed than either milk or water. If there is a feeble pulse and danger of heart failure, alcoholic stimulation may be required. In such cases, egg-nog and milk punch should be given.