Australia confirms first diphtheria death amid worst outbreak in decades
Australia has confirmed its first diphtheria death since 2018 amid a significant outbreak of the disease. The outbreak, which began in March, has resulted in 245 cases this year, the highest number since 1991, primarily affecting remote Indigenous communities. In response, the government has intensified vaccination efforts and established pop-up clinics to encourage immunization in at-risk populations.
- ▪Australia has recorded its first diphtheria death in almost a decade, with the death occurring in April.
- ▪This year, there have been 245 cases of diphtheria, marking the largest outbreak since 1991.
- ▪The Northern Territory has reported 60% of the cases, followed by Western Australia with about 36%.
- ▪Health officials are urging communities to update their vaccinations, especially among teenagers and adults.
- ▪The government has announced a AU$7.2m package to enhance vaccination efforts in affected areas.
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Australia confirms first diphtheria death amid worst outbreak in decades27 minutes agoShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleLana LamSydneyGettyAustralia has confirmed its first death from diphtheria since 2018Australia has recorded its first diphtheria death in almost a decade as the country grapples with the worst outbreak of the vaccine-preventable disease in decades.In March, the Northern Territory (NT) declared an outbreak of diphtheria with cases also in Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland.
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