Leaked data from NT Health, circulated to service providers on Thursday, reveals that diphtheria cases in the Northern Territory surged in April 2026, a month before the department issued a public health alert in May 2026. The data provides the first public insight into the timing of the outbreak, which has raised concerns about delayed communication.
According to the leaked figures, the number of diphtheria cases increased significantly in April, but NT Health did not alert the public until late May. Health officials have not yet commented on the delay, but the data suggests the outbreak was already underway when the alert was issued.
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that can cause breathing difficulties and heart problems. The Northern Territory has seen sporadic cases in recent years, but the April surge marks a notable uptick. Health authorities are urging vaccination and prompt medical attention for symptoms.
