Australia announces $7.2m diphtheria outbreak response package

A serious bacterial infection that most often spreads through respiratory droplets, or direct contact with the wound, diphtheria has had its biggest outbreak since national record-keeping began, with 230 cases reported by the National Disease Surveillance System this year.

To support the Northern Territory Government and the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Sector’s response to the outbreak, the Australian Government has announced a $7.2 million response package.

To provide surge workforce to administer booster vaccinations and treatments, and to procure additional vaccines and antibiotics, $5.2 million has been allocated for the National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre.

For the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation to work with the Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance NT, affiliates and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations in the NT and other affected states for culturally safe communications, community liaison and other on-the-ground public health supports, $2 million has been allocated.

“Vaccination is the strongest protection against diphtheria,” the federal government advised. “Diphtheria vaccines are recommended for children at 2, 4, 6 and 18 months, and 4 years of age, and adolescents at 11–13 years of age. A diphtheria vaccine booster is recommended for adults at 50 years of age. Where there is a higher risk of acquiring diphtheria, booster vaccinations are recommended every 5 years.”

Of the outbreak, around 60% of cases are in the Northern Territory, with further outbreaks in Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia. The federal government said it will continue to monitor the outbreak and work with other states as required.

“Vaccination for diphtheria is safe and it is an incredibly effective tool against disease,” Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler said. “We have enough vaccine and we are making sure it is getting to the right communities.

“I know the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services in these communities are working extremely hard to protect their most vulnerable,” Butler added. “This package will ensure those Australians that need the vaccine will get access quickly and appropriately.”

Information on diphtheria is available here, on the Australian Centre for Disease Control’s diphtheria webpage.

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