Diphtheria outbreak across Australia surpasses 500 cases
Australia has recorded 538 diphtheria cases in 2026. It is the largest outbreak since records began in 1991. The true numbers may be higher because testing has dropped.
Why it mattersDiphtheria is a highly contagious and dangerous bacterial infection treated with antibiotics. Vaccination is the best protection. A decline in testing means actual case numbers could be much higher than reported.
AustraliaAboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in remote and outer regional areas are most affected, and the federal government is providing $13 million to support responses across jurisdictions.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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