Australia’s diphtheria outbreak deepens amid investigation into suspected first death

Australia is grappling with a significant diphtheria outbreak, with cases spreading across multiple states and a suspected first death under investigation. Health authorities are urging vigilance for symptoms and emphasizing the importance of vaccination. This rare resurgence marks a serious public health concern for the nation. If investigators confirm the death was caused by diphtheria, it would mark Australia’s first fatality from the infectious disease since 2018.