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Australia struggles to contain worst diphtheria outbreak in decades
Independent.co.uk and 1 more
- More than 220 diphtheria cases are reported nationwide, marking the largest outbreak in years.
- A death in the Northern Territory is being investigated as possibly linked to diphtheria.
- Health Minister Mark Butler says the outbreak is the largest the country has seen in about 35 years.
- The government plans a vaccination push and surge workforce to widen protection.
- Experts note dipping vaccination rates since 2020 contributed to the resurgence.
- Most cases involve Indigenous Australians, prompting targeted immunisation efforts.
- Public health officials warn many remote communities lack access to timely care.
- Authorities urge Australians to ensure full diphtheria vaccination coverage.
- Case numbers are spread across Northern Territory, Western Australia, South Australia, and Queensland.
- Health authorities stress the outbreak’s seriousness and potential hospital impact.
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