Diphtheria emerging in Australia

Since October 2025, diphtheria cases have been emerging in the Northern Territory of Australia. By April 2026, more than 70 new cases had been identified, and the epidemic situation remains ongoing. Most cases have been cutaneous diphtheria with relatively mild disease, due to prior vaccination. Nevertheless, the situation is concerning and highlights the importance of effective surveillance and high vaccination coverage as key elements for controlling the disease.

A report of the outbreak can be found through the link: Eurosurveillance