Australia: Melioidosis warning in Far North Queensland
Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service issued a concerning a rise in melioidosis cases since the beginning of the year.
From the beginning of the year to date, 30 melioidosis cases and two deaths have been reported.
Director of Tropical Public Health Service Dr Jacqui Murdoch said this was an above-average number of cases for this time of year.
“The monsoon season has started relatively late in Cairns, so people should be aware that seasonal diseases such as melioidosis are likely to remain a danger for a longer period,” Murdoch said.
Melioidosis is a serious bacterial disease, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, found in ground water and soil, and you may be at risk of infection, particularly if you have an underlying medical condition such as diabetes, kidney or lung problems, or are immunocompromised.
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Symptoms of melioidosis may include: fever, cough and difficulty breathing.
The effects can be very severe and often require hospitalization for antibiotic treatment.
To reduce your risk of melioidosis infection, avoid contact with soil or muddy water, particularly after heavy rains.
Wear protective footwear - NOT open footwear such as thongs and sandals - when outdoors, especially in muddy conditions.