This condition is also known as cutaneous larva migrans. It occurs most commonly where warm climates allow the eggs and larvae to flourish in the vegetation. Several other worm types, and some fly larva, may cause similar appearing lesions. Diphtheria is seldom seen in the United States because of high public levels of immunization with the DPT vaccine. In 1994, they had an epidemic with 47,000 reported cases.
Diphtheria is a severe and sometimes life-threatening illness.