Australia may be faced with the most serious diphtheria epidemic in decades.

Reporters from the central news agency learned on the 19th that cases of diphtheria have appeared in several areas in Australia. The Northern Territory has reported a total of 133 cases of diphtheria, while Western Australia, South Australia, and Queensland have reported 79, 6, and 5 cases respectively. The Australian Federal Minister of Health has expressed concern, stating that this is likely the most serious diphtheria outbreak in Australia in decades. Health authorities are intensifying diphtheria vaccination efforts for high-risk populations and recommending that anyone experiencing sore throat or skin ulcers seek medical attention promptly and undergo a throat swab test.