The Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance Northern Territory (AMSANT) is calling for urgent action as diphtheria cases continue to rise across the Northern Territory, with early care and vaccination flagged as critical to limiting the outbreak.
A total of 84 cases have reportedly been recorded between 1 January 2025 and 24 April 2026, including respiratory and cutaneous infections.
Reportedly, more than 90% of cases have affected Aboriginal people, with around one-third requiring hospitalisation.
‘A serious bacterial infection’
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that can be life-threatening in people who are not adequately vaccinated, with unvaccinated children under 5 known to be most at risk of poor outcomes if they are unvaccinated.
Vaccination remains the best protection against serious illness.
“Diphtheria can spread quickly, but we know that vaccination is the best way to reduce the risk of serious disease,” says AMSANT CEO Donna Ah Chee.
“It is important that people take steps to protect themselves and their families.
“If you have a sore throat or skin sores, it’s important to visit your local clinic early.
“Everyone needs to ensure that their vaccinations are up to date.”
‘Greatest impact on the vulnerable’
Ms Ah Chee says the outbreak highlights the need to protect those most at risk, particularly in remote communities.
“In the Northern Territory, factors such as overcrowded housing, remoteness and limited access to care can increase transmission,” she says.
“These outbreaks tend to have the greatest impact on the most vulnerable people in our communities, such as those at higher risk or with barriers to accessing health care, which is why the response must be targeted, accessible and culturally safe.”
Ms Ah Chee says Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) are central to the outbreak response and are best placed to deliver vaccination, treatment and public health support.
“Our member services are on the frontline — they are trusted, they know their communities, and they are already doing the work to get vaccines and treatment to the people who need them,” she says.
‘Early care is critical’
AMSANT is encouraging Territorians to:
- Make sure children are up to date with routine vaccinations, including adolescent boosters.
- Check their own vaccination status with their local clinic.
- Seek care early if they have symptoms or are concerned.
“We are seeing that people who are vaccinated are much less likely to become seriously unwell,” says Ms Ah Chee.
“There is effective treatment available, but getting care early is critical.”
AMSANT reports that it has worked closely with the Northern Territory Government to ensure additional workforce capacity and a strong public health response.
“This is about making sure the response reaches communities quickly and that services have the support they need to manage the outbreak and keep our communities safe and well.”
