$7.2m to battle diphtheria outbreak

The Federal Government is to is to deliver a $7.2 million package to support the Northern Territory Government, and the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Sector respond to the diphtheria outbreak.

This includes:

• $5.2 million for the National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre to provide surge workforce to administer booster vaccinations and treatments, and to procure additional vaccines and antibiotics.
• $2 million to the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations to work with 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.

The National Disease Surveillance System reports 230 diphtheria cases this year, which is the biggest outbreak since national record-keeping began.

Vaccination is the strongest protection against diphtheria. 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.

Around 60 per cent of the cases in this outbreak are in the Northern Territory, with further outbreaks in Western Australia, South Australia, and Queensland.

Health Minister Mark Butler said vaccination for diphtheria was safe and was an incredibly effective tool against disease.

“We have enough vaccine and we are making sure it is getting to the right communities,” he said.

“I know the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services in these communities are working extremely hard to protect their most vulnerable.

“This package will ensure those Australians that need the vaccine will get access quickly and appropriately.”

Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said diphtheria was a serious, but vaccine-preventable disease.

“If you are unsure about whether your vaccinations are up to date, speak to your GP or health clinic,” she said.