Diphtheria : how to recognize the disease, how to keep from catching it, how to treat those who do catch it

This concise public‑health guide walks listeners through the essentials of diphtheria, a once‑common childhood illness that still poses a serious threat when left unchecked. It explains how the disease can masquerade as an ordinary sore throat, detailing the tell‑tale signs such as grayish membranes on the tonsils or uvula and swollen neck glands. By learning these early clues, families can act quickly before the infection spreads.

The program also covers practical steps to keep the germ from moving beyond the home, from proper hand‑washing to sterilizing utensils and recognizing healthy carriers who show no symptoms. It describes how doctors confirm the diagnosis with throat cultures and why timely administration of antitoxin can turn a potentially lethal case into a routine recovery. Listeners will come away with clear, actionable advice that reflects the best medical knowledge of the early twentieth century.