NT diphtheria cases declining as 10,000 immunised, one death confirmed
Diphtheria cases in the Northern Territory are declining following a vaccination campaign that has immunized over 10,000 residents. Health authorities confirmed one death related to the outbreak, while another suspected case tested negative for the disease. Officials emphasize the need for continued efforts to control the outbreak and welcome inquiries into the health response.
- ▪There have been 163 reported diphtheria cases in the Northern Territory, including 115 skin infections and 48 respiratory infections.
- ▪Health Minister Steve Edgington stated that case numbers have decreased from 22 new reports per week to just nine in the last week.
- ▪One death has been confirmed as diphtheria-related, while another reported death tested negative for the disease.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
NT diphtheria cases falling as 10,000 vaccines rolled out, test confirms man's death relatedJBy Jason WallsTopic:Disease OutbreakTue 26 May 2026 at 11:10amTue 26 May 2026 at 11:10amTue 26 May 2026 at 11:10amSteve Edgington says the government's diphtheria response has been "swift" and "ongoing". (ABC News: Dane Hirst)In short:Northern Territory Health Minister Steve Edgington says there have been 163 diphtheria cases reported in the territory, including 115 skin infections and 48 of the more severe respiratory illness.NT Chief Health Officer Paul Burgess says one suspected death has now been confirmed as diphtheria-related, while another man who reportedly died with the disease has tested negative.What's next?Health authorities are continuing to rollout vaccines across the NT, while Dr…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).