The Northern Territory is experiencing an increase in cases of diphtheria.
Diphtheria is an uncommon bacterial infection that can cause severe illness in unvaccinated individuals.
There have been 84 cases of diphtheria reported in the Northern Territory between 1 January 2025 and 24 April 2026. This includes 18 cases of respiratory diphtheria and 66 cases of cutaneous cases (skin sores).
Vaccination is highly effective in preventing severe illness from diphtheria
Diphtheria can cause skin sores (cutaneous diphtheria) and also a sore throat (respiratory diphtheria).
Treatment with antibiotics is effective for diphtheria.
Diphtheria is spread by direct skin contact with people who have infected sores or by coughing and sneezing from people who have respiratory diphtheria.
Vaccination is the most important health measure for prevention, protection and reducing transmission.
Vaccination is free under the National Immunisation Program under the age of 20. Children are routinely vaccinated against diphtheria at 6 weeks, 4 months, 6 months, 18 months, 4 years and 12 years.
Pregnant women from 20 weeks of pregnancy are also eligible for a free vaccination.
Adults are recommended to have a diphtheria vaccine booster every 10 years.
Adults who have not had a diphtheria vaccine in the last 10 years, or are unsure, should check with their health care provider if they are due for a booster.
Parents should check their child's vaccination status with their health care provider to make sure they are up to date with the NT immunisation schedule.
Territorians can get the vaccine at their local Aboriginal health service, remote community clinic, community care centres, GPs, and participating pharmacies.
See your health service/GP if you are concerned about your symptoms.
