Friday, 17 July 2026
TGA suspends STI self-test, Cyber attack notification delay, RSV cases outnumber flu and COVID-19
- 01
TGA suspends STI self-test due to performance issues
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has suspended a commercially available self-test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea after concerns about its ability to accurately detect infections. The review indicated that the test could produce false negatives, potentially delaying diagnosis and contributing to ongoing transmission. The suspension, effective from 17 June, prohibits the lawful supply of the device in Australia until further notice. Healthcare professionals are advised to consider confirmatory testing for patients at increased risk of STIs, regardless of negative self-test results.
- 02
Partnered Health Delays Cyber Attack Notification by 22 Days
Partnered Health took 22 days to notify patients and authorities about a cyber attack that compromised personal details and medical records of thousands of patients. The breach affected 21 clinics across multiple Australian states, prompting criticism from cybersecurity experts regarding the delay in communication. Dr Fariha Tasmin Jaigirdar labelled the delay as 'not acceptable', emphasising the importance of timely notifications for patient safety. Partnered Health has reported the incident to relevant authorities and is working with cybersecurity experts to investigate the breach.
- 03
RSV Cases Surpass Influenza and COVID-19 in Australia
The Immunisation Foundation of Australia reports that RSV cases have exceeded those of influenza and COVID-19 in the first half of 2026, with 83,678 notifications of RSV compared to 49,785 for influenza and 51,655 for COVID-19. Despite this, only 722,530 older Australians have received the RSV vaccine, significantly lower than the 1.76 million who received the flu shot. The Foundation expresses concern over the vaccination gap, particularly as New South Wales accounts for 47% of RSV cases. The Department of Health anticipates at least another 40,000 RSV cases by the end of winter, highlighting the urgency for increased vaccination among older adults.
- 04
New guidelines for childhood hypertension released in Australia
Australia has published new guidelines for the management and identification of hypertension in children and adolescents, responding to the rising prevalence of the condition. Experts estimate that one in 11 Australian children currently live with hypertension, with many cases undetected. The guidelines recommend blood pressure screening at ages seven to nine and 13 to 15, with simplified thresholds for initial screening. They emphasise a non-pharmacologic, team-based management approach for most children, while also addressing the higher burden of hypertension among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
- 05
Survey reveals GP satisfaction in aged care homes
A new Australian survey indicates that over half of GPs working in residential aged care homes are satisfied with their care models, yet a significant majority express dissatisfaction with their remuneration. The study, involving 105 GPs, highlights that 59% are unhappy with their pay, contrasting with only 18% who are satisfied. While GPs report positive engagement with care delivery, the findings underscore ongoing financial challenges that may threaten the sustainability of general practice in aged care. The survey also notes that satisfaction levels do not significantly differ between various care models.
- 06
RACGP Victoria calls for policy reforms ahead of state election
RACGP Victoria urges political parties to ensure GPs receive equal treatment to non-GP specialists in the upcoming state election. Deputy co-chair Dr Aadhil Aziz advocates for expanded GP scope of practice, including the ability to prescribe isotretinoin for severe acne, which could alleviate wait times and costs. The college also seeks reforms in payroll tax, funding for medicines for children in foster care, and support for medication-assisted treatment for opioid dependence. The Victorian state election is scheduled for 28 November 2026.
MDDR is a news digest for medical professionals. It is not medical advice and should not be relied on for clinical decision-making.