Urgent vaccine alert as NT diphtheria outbreak spreads across states
- May 20
- 1 min read
Australia’s top medical body is urging families to check their diphtheria vaccinations as the country faces its largest outbreak in decades.
More than 220 cases have now been confirmed across the Northern Territory, Western Australia, Queensland and South Australia. One person in the NT has died, with investigations continuing into the exact cause.
The Australian Medical Association warned falling vaccination rates are allowing serious diseases to return. AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said immunisation remains one of the most effective public health tools and urged Australians to ensure their vaccinations and booster shots are up to date.
The outbreak first emerged in remote Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory before spreading across multiple regions and state borders. Health authorities say most NT cases involve Indigenous Australians, with vaccination campaigns now being intensified in affected communities.
Health Minister Mark Butler described the outbreak as “serious” and likely the biggest seen in decades.
Diphtheria is a highly infectious bacterial disease spread through coughing, sneezing and contact with infected skin sores. Early symptoms can resemble the flu, but severe cases may cause dangerous breathing problems, organ damage and even death.
Doctors say vaccination is the best protection against the disease. Even with treatment, respiratory diphtheria can be fatal in some cases.
Source : 9 News
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