The Strangling Angel
Diptheria is caused by a bacteria that invades the lining of the respiratory system. It creates a silvery blockage on the tongue and throat that makes it difficult to breath and slowly suffocates those who are infected, which was why it was referred to as the "strangling angel."
Prior to an efffective vaccine developed by Alexander Thomas Glenny and Gaston Ramon (pictured ot the right), the disease claimed the lives of more than 50% of those who became infected. Even after modern treatments have been adopted today, one of nine persons who are infected by diptheria die.
Gaston Ramon (1886-1963) was a French veterinarian that expanded the role of adjuvants. In developing vaccinations for horses infected by diptheria, he found that the immunization would be more effective if there was an immune response at the site of the shot. This reaction seemed to alert the immune system and help the enhance the immune response. This innovation made vaccines more efficient and effective. In addition to diptheria discoveries, Ramon became the world record holder for the most Nobel prize nominations (155), without ever winning one.