Diphtheria reminder: Vaccination key to protecting Mob

We are urging Mob to make sure their vaccinations are up to date as health authorities respond to a rise in diphtheria cases across Australia. Recent outbreaks have been reported in parts of the Northern Territory, Western Australia, South Australia and north Queensland, prompting a national public health response.

What is diphtheria?

Diphtheria is a serious infection caused by bacteria, and it can sometimes be life-threatening. Symptoms may include a sore throat, fever, swollen glands, and difficulty swallowing. Some people develop a thick grey or white coating in their throat, which can make it very hard to breathe. Diphtheria can also cause skin sores or ulcers that do not heal easily. In severe cases, it can damage the heart, cause paralysis, lead to serious breathing problems, or even result in death.

The infection spreads through coughing, sneezing, close contact with an infected person, or contact with infected skin sores. For many years, diphtheria has been rare in Australia because of routine vaccination. However, cases and outbreaks can still occur, particularly in communities where fewer people are vaccinated. Vaccination is the best way to protect you, your family, and your community from diphtheria.

Diphtheria outbreak

There has been a sharp increase in diphtheria cases since late 2025. Most cases have been reported in remote and regional areas, with Mob making up around 95% of those affected. Due to the growing number of cases and the risk to communities, the Australian Chief Health Officer declared the outbreak a Communicable Disease Incident of National Significance in May 2026. This means health authorities across Australia are working together to help control the spread of the disease and protect communities.

In Queensland, only a small number of cases have been recorded this year, but health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Some cases have been linked to travel from outbreak areas interstate.

Preventing diphtheria

Severe illness from diphtheria is preventable through vaccination. We encourage everyone, especially families with young children and adults who may be due for a booster, to check their immunisation status and speak with their healthcare provider.

The diphtheria vaccine is provided as part of the National Immunisation Program and is routinely given to children, with booster doses recommended throughout life. This 3-in-1 vaccine also covers whooping cough and tetanus.

In Australia, the recommended childhood schedule is:

• 2 months
• 4 months
• 6 months
• 18 months
• 4 years
• 11-13 years (school-based program)

Booster doses are recommended for the following people and circumstances:

• Routinely at 50 years of age
• Adults travelling to areas where diphtheria risk is higher may need a booster every 5-10 years, depending on the destination and their vaccination history
• First Nations people aged over 20 years with their most recent dose more than 10 years ago are eligible for a free booster.

Yarn with your GP or healthcare provider about catching up on the schedule any time.

Check in with your clinic

People travelling to outbreak areas or those unsure of their vaccination status are encouraged to seek advice from their healthcare provider.

Check with your local clinic about your vaccinations and keep yourself and your family safe. The 3-in-1 vaccine is free for jarjum and adults over 20 years old.

For more information about diphtheria and vaccination, visit your local health service or speak to your GP.