Australian health authorities have confirmed the first death from diphtheria as the country faces its worst outbreak of the disease in decades. The majority of cases are concentrated in the Northern Territory, with additional confirmed cases in Western Australia, South Australia, and Queensland.
Diphtheria, a serious bacterial infection preventable by vaccination, has resurged across multiple Australian states and territories. The outbreak underscores concerns about immunization coverage and highlights the disease’s continued threat to unvaccinated and under-vaccinated populations.
Health authorities are implementing outbreak response measures, including case investigation, contact tracing, and vaccination efforts across affected regions. Public health officials are monitoring the situation closely and urging healthcare providers to maintain vigilance for suspected cases. This is a developing story.
Source: Australia confirms first diphtheria death amid worst outbreak in decades
