This bacterial infection is contagious and can be deadly

In Malaysia, the diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus (DTP) vaccine is given at childhood. — AFP

I heard that diphtheria is making a comeback. I have vaguely heard about it, but am not sure what it is. It seems to be quite obscure, and yet – it is still out there. I heard my grandmother saying it was quite common in her day. What is it?

Diphtheria is a bacterial infection caused by a bacterium called Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which releases toxins.