Vaccine misinformation, nurse and doctor shortages and crowded living arrangements may be behind soaring rates of diphtheria in remote Indigenous communities in Australia
Health
Vaccine misinformation, nurse and doctor shortages and crowded living arrangements may be behind soaring rates of diphtheria in remote Indigenous communities in Australia
By Alice Klein
22 May 2026
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Health experts are warning that misinformation around Australia's diphtheria outbreak is fuelling fear, confusion and distrust.
Health authorities say almost all cases involve Indigenous Australians
Diphtheria, in its respiratory form, produces a severe toxin which damages the heart, nerves and kidneys.
While the world deals with war and crisis, Australia is heading towards a major health emergency. In fact, according to the…
Australia’s worst diphtheria outbreak in decades has triggered vaccine warnings as cases rise in WA and NT.
