All of the following are true about diphtheria except:

Diphtheria: Causative agent – Corynebacterium diphtheriae (Gram +ve bacillus) Incubation period: 2 - 6 days. Depending on site present as: – Nasal diphtheria - Mildest, toxemia is minimal. – Faucial diphtheria (most common) = Nasopharyngeal diphtheria - More severe than nasal diphtheria. – Laryngotracheal diphtheria - Most severe, maximum obstructive symptom, tracheostomy may be essential. Complications : – Myocarditis - Occurs towards the end of 1st or begining of 2nd week. – Peripheral neuropathy of descending type. – Renal failure. Remember : Cardiac damage is permanent, while recovery of nerve damage is rule.