Diphtheria Surge in Australia Sparks Travel Warnings and Vaccination Drive

Australia is battling its worst diphtheria outbreak in decades with more than 230 cases and at least one death, concentrated in the Northern Territory and Western Australia and impacting Aboriginal communities. Authorities designated the outbreak a national significance event, launched a vaccination push with funding, and issued travel warnings for unvaccinated travellers, including UK visitors who should check boosters before travelling. The disease is highly contagious and can be severe, especially in children, if not treated promptly.