Australia Faces Worst Diphtheria Outbreak in Decades
Australia is currently experiencing its most severe diphtheria outbreak in decades, with over 220 confirmed cases of the bacterial infection reported across the country. The majority of these cases have been recorded in the Northern Territory, although infections have also spread to Western Australia, South Australia, and Queensland. While there has been one suspected death linked to the outbreak, the Northern Territory government is still investigating the cause.
Almost all cases have affected Indigenous Australians, raising concerns about health disparities and access to medical care. Federal Health Minister Mark Butler has described the situation as “very concerning,” emphasizing the gravity of the outbreak. He noted that over the past 35 years, the number of diphtheria cases has remained relatively low, but this current outbreak is significantly larger than any previously recorded. According to Butler, the number of cases is about 30 times the average seen over the last five years.
In response to the crisis, the Albanese Government has announced a $7.2 million funding package aimed at helping to contain the outbreak and support affected communities.
What is Diphtheria?
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that can affect the nose, throat, airways, or skin. There are two main forms of the disease: respiratory diphtheria, which affects the throat and breathing passages, and cutaneous diphtheria, which affects the skin.
In severe cases, respiratory diphtheria can block the airways, while toxins released by the bacteria can lead to serious complications such as heart and nerve damage.
Symptoms of Diphtheria
Symptoms of diphtheria typically develop between two and five days after infection. For respiratory diphtheria, symptoms may include a sore throat, fever or chills, swollen glands in the neck, difficulty breathing, and a thick grey coating over the throat or tonsils.
Cutaneous diphtheria can cause painful or inflamed skin sores and slow-healing ulcers that may develop a grey membrane. Dr John Boffa, a public health medical officer at the Central Australian Aboriginal Health Congress, mentioned that around one-third of the cases in the current outbreak involve respiratory diphtheria.
“Skin diphtheria can lead to respiratory diphtheria in other people, and so it’s all concerning,” he said.
How Does Diphtheria Spread?
Diphtheria spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through close contact with infected skin sores. Dr Boffa urged anyone experiencing symptoms to seek medical advice immediately.
“Anyone with a sore throat at this stage needs to go to their clinic,” he said.
Why Are Cases Increasing?
Diphtheria was once considered rare in Australia due to widespread vaccination programs that began in the 1930s. However, health experts believe that falling childhood vaccination rates and missed booster shots among adults are contributing to the current outbreak.
Routine childhood immunisation rates dropped to their lowest level in five years in 2025, and many adults may not be aware that they need booster vaccinations later in life.
Should You Get a Booster?
Health authorities emphasize that vaccination remains the best protection against diphtheria. They are encouraging people to check whether they are up to date with their immunizations. Booster shots are being recommended for some adolescents and adults over 50, while those at higher risk may require more frequent boosters.
If you are unsure whether you or your family are up to date with vaccinations, it is advisable to consult your GP, pharmacist, or healthcare provider.
