Corynebacterium diphtheriae

Corynebacterium diphtheriae is the bacterium responsible for diphtheria, a fairly serious respiratory infection in humans. It is transmitted by tiny microdroplets of saliva, released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Once installed in the throat, this bacteria produces a powerful toxin that causes the formation of thick false membranes. As a result, breathing becomes difficult, and in the most severe cases, the toxin can even reach the heart or nervous system, causing serious complications.

Good news: Corynebacterium diphtheriae only lives in humans, and thanks to an effective vaccine, infections remain rare today. With good vaccination coverage, we even have the power to make this bacteria disappear !

FUN FACT : This bacterium is called pleomorphic : it can take on several forms! But in general, it looks like a small rod with a swollen end, like a miniature club .

Ready to add this icon of medical history to your collection? The Corynebacterium diphtheriae sticker is available now… harmless, but 100% scientific! 🦠💉✨

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PUN: Grim reaper? I'm no diph-erent!