Diphtheria is a highly contagious infection that affects the nose and throat, and sometimes the skin. It is a rare disease in the UK due to youngsters receiving vaccinations against it since the 1940s. Diphtheria can be a serious illness and sometimes fatal, especially in children, if it’s not treated quickly. There have been 50 known cases in migrants who have arrived in the UK on small boats. Last week, the Home Office said the death of a man at the Manston processing centre in Kent may have been from a diphtheria infection. Since 2018, the World Health Organisation has reported a rise in cases in places including Indonesia, India, South America and Africa. Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection. It is spread by coughs and sneezes, or through close contact with someone who is infected. You can also get it by sharing items, such as cups, cutlery, clothing or bedding, with an infected person. Symptoms usually start two to five days after becoming infected. They include: In countries with poor hygiene, infection of the skin is more common. This can cause: The main treatments are antibiotics to kill the diphtheria bacteria and medicines to stop the effects of the harmful substances produced by the bacteria. Treatment usually lasts up to three weeks, with any skin ulcers usually healing within three months. People who have been in close contact with someone who has diphtheria may also need to take antibiotics or may be given a dose of the diphtheria vaccination.