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Diphtheria is back in Australia. Here's what to know

Once a major cause of childhood deaths, diphtheria was largely eliminated through vaccination. Health authorities say falling immunity may now be helping the disease spread again.

First seen · 9:02 PM UTCMay 16, 2026

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ABC News (Australia)
CenterAustralian Broadcasting Corporation
Diphtheria is back in Australia. Here's what to knowOnce a major cause of childhood deaths, diphtheria was largely eliminated through vaccination. Health authorities say falling immunity may now be helping the disease spread again.
9:02 PM UTC

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