Canberra, May 19: A significant outbreak of diphtheria in Australia’s Northern Territory has emerged as the largest case in decades. The infection is now spreading to neighboring states, Queensland and South Australia, as reported by health officials on Tuesday.
According to the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System, there have been 133 confirmed cases in the Northern Territory. Additionally, South Australia has reported six cases, while Queensland has recorded five.
Health Minister Mark Butler informed the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) that this outbreak is likely the largest in recent decades. He also confirmed that officials are investigating a suspected death linked to diphtheria.
The outbreak is particularly affecting Indigenous communities, especially in remote areas. Health officials are collaborating with Aboriginal medical services to enhance testing and vaccination efforts.
Diphtheria was once a leading cause of death among children but is preventable through vaccination. However, when immunity wanes, the disease can resurface. Authorities now recommend booster doses for at-risk adults every five years, reduced from the previous ten-year interval.
Local health leaders indicate that thousands in Central Australia are still overdue for their booster shots, although vaccination rates have surged in recent weeks. According to ABC, approximately 15 to 20 new cases are reported weekly in the Northern Territory.
Officials urge anyone experiencing symptoms such as a sore throat or skin infections to get tested promptly, as efforts to contain the infection have intensified.
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that diphtheria is an infectious disease caused by toxin-producing bacteria. It can spread from person to person when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. Some people may not show symptoms but can still infect others. While many experience mild illness, severe complications and death can occur.
Diphtheria can affect anyone, but it is especially prevalent among unvaccinated children. The toxin produced by the bacteria can damage the respiratory tract and spread to other parts of the body. Common symptoms include fever, sore throat, and swollen neck glands.
Vaccination is the best way to prevent diphtheria and stop its spread to others. The vaccine is safe and helps the body fight off infections.
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