Page last updated
13 January 2022
Due to routine vaccination diphtheria is now rare in Australia and other developed countries. However, in the cases that are reported diphtheria is now more commonly seen in adults than in children.
FAQ
How common is diphtheria now?
Although rare in Australia, diphtheria still occurs in many developing countries. In particular, Asia, the South Pacific, the Middle East, and in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Outbreaks have occurred in Indonesia, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Vietnam, Venezuela, Haiti, South Africa and Yemen, since 2016.
If you are planning an overseas trip, make sure you are up-to-date with your immunisations.
Sources & Citations
3. Australian Government. Department of Health. Diphtheria in Australia, recent trends and future prevention strategies. Available at: http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/content/cda-pubs-cdi-2000-cdi2406-cdi2406f.htm (accessed 24 November 2021).
5.Centers for Disease Control. Chapter 4, travel-related infectious diseases. Diphtheria. Available at: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/travel-related-infectious-diseases/diphtheria (accessed 24 November 2021).
9. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Diphtheria in Australia. Available at: https://www.aihw.gov.au/getmedia/f4c418f9-b4fe-4fb3-84e6-366d5098a8a0/aihw-phe-236_Diphtheria.pdf.aspx (accessed 24 November 2021).
MAT-AU-2102461 Date of preparation January 2022
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