Australia’s diphtheria outbreak is growing, with cases reported across multiple states and territories, particularly in remote Indigenous communities. Health authorities say the outbreak is among the largest recorded in the country in decades. The Guardian reports that health officials learned of spread later than when transmission may have started, with early cases described as “grumbling along” before being identified. The outbreak is concentrated in the Northern Territory, but sources also report cases in Western Australia, South Australia, and Queensland. The West Australian reports that more than 160 people have been affected nationwide, while other outlets describe the current rate as far higher than the national average over recent years. The BBC says most cases are in the Northern Territory, with additional cases in several other jurisdictions. Multiple outlets report Australia’s first confirmed diphtheria death in almost a decade, attributed to a case in the Northern Territory. SBS and 7News note the previous death in 2018 involved an unvaccinated adult. Health responses described across coverage include ramped-up public health efforts and renewed emphasis on vaccination to limit further spread.