Diphtheria is an infectious disease that chiefly affects the throat and upper airways and is spread through physical or respiratory contact. Last seen in Venezuela in 1992, diphtheria has been spreading in the southern jungle state of Bolivar, according to a statement by two local public health associations on Thursday. The statement said 17 people had died from diphtheria in Venezuela, citing local media. "The resurgence of diphtheria shows the failure of health policies," lawmaker Olivares said. Diphtheria was once a major cause of illness and death of children but is now very rare in developed countries due to vaccinations.

Source: Fox News October 06, 2016 21:33 UTC