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Which of the following bacteria causes the disease diphtheria?

  • A. Bordetella pertussis
  • B. Corynebacterium diphtheriae
  • C. Streptococcus pyogenes
  • D. Neisseria meningitidis
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Corynebacterium diphtheriae. This bacterium produces a toxin that causes diphtheria by inhibiting protein synthesis, leading to the formation of a pseudomembrane in the throat. Bordetella pertussis causes whooping cough, Streptococcus pyogenes causes strep throat, and Neisseria meningitidis causes meningitis. Corynebacterium diphtheriae is the only bacterium among the choices known to cause diphtheria due to its specific toxin production.