Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis
Diphtheria begins as a sore and swollen throat due to bacterial infection which can cause obstruction to breathing and damage to the heart. Diphtheria can be life-threatening.Tetanus (lockjaw) often begins with the clamping together of the jaw. There is severe muscle spasm involving many parts of the body, including the muscles responsible for the breathing and swallowing. Death can often result.
Pertussis or Whooping Cough typically starts like ordinary cold, with a runny nose leading to prolonged bouts of coughing which are followed by a whooping sound as the child breathes in. It can lead to pneumonia and brain damage.
