Reported case numbers of diphtheria in the NT
NT Health is working with healthcare providers, Aboriginal community-controlled health organisations, remote health services and other partners to respond to the diphtheria outbreak in the NT.
The primary goal of the response is to support NT wide diphtheria vaccination.
The response also includes:
- investigating confirmed cases
- identifying and supporting close contacts of people with diphtheria
- monitoring and reporting on new cases
- providing information and resources to communities and healthcare workers.
Weekly data will be updated on:
- total reported case numbers
- new cases by region
- vaccines administered.
Download the diphtheria outbreak weekly surveillance update PDF (1.2 MB).
Total reported cases
| Diphtheria cases reported (1 January 2025 to 19 August 2026) | Total |
|---|---|
| Respiratory | 93 |
| Skin infections | 221 |
| Total reported cases | 314 |
Diphtheria cases by region
| Region likely acquired | Total cases (1 January 2025 to 19 August 2026) |
|---|---|
| Top End | 120 |
| East Arnhem | 1 |
| Big Rivers | 58 |
| Barkly | 23 |
| Central Australia | 86 |
| Unknown | 16 |
| Outside NT (interstate) | 10 |
NT administered diphtheria vaccines
| Total vaccines administered (since 30 March 2026) | Weekly change (10 August to 16 August 2026) |
|---|---|
| 37,435 | 867 |
Information for health professionals
Get the latest diphtheria alerts, guidelines and public health advice from the Surveillance and Response Unit and Chief Health Officer on the NT Health website.
Contact
Contact your nearest Centre for Disease Control on the NT Health website.