Overview
- Health Minister Mark Butler called the surge “very concerning” as cases rose past 220, with most reported in the Northern Territory.
- New government data show routine childhood immunizations have declined for five straight years, which officials say is driving the spread.
- Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory face crowded housing and understaffed clinics, increasing infection risk and slowing care.
- Authorities are preparing a support package to expand vaccination drives and ease strain on local health services.
- About a quarter of respiratory patients have needed hospital care, severe cases still kill about 10% despite antibiotics, and officials are investigating a possible death.