Tejal Somvanshi
A rare soil-borne disease has killed 12 people in northern Queensland since the start of the year, with health officials calling it a “record-breaking” outbreak.
Northern Queensland is experiencing an unprecedented rise in melioidosis cases, with Cairns reporting 53 cases and Townsville recording 34 cases since January. The death toll has reached 12 people, with nine deaths in Cairns and three in Townsville.
“It absolutely is a record-breaking year,” said Dr. Jacqueline Murdoch, Tropical Public Health Services director. “Certainly we haven’t seen anything like this.”
What is causing the surge?
Health authorities believe the region’s heavy rainfall is a major factor in the outbreak. The bacteria that causes melioidosis, Burkholderia pseudomallei, lives in soil and rises to the surface during periods of heavy rain and flooding.
“Certainly, the climate has something to do with it,” Dr. Murdoch said. “We had such a big rainy season last year — that is likely contributing to the high numbers.”
Most patients have become infected by breathing in the bacteria. “When there’s that heavy rain, the bacteria becomes airborne and people breathe it in,” Dr. Murdoch explained.
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Who is at risk?
While anyone can catch melioidosis, certain groups face higher danger:
- Older adults
- People with weakened immune systems
- Cancer patients
- Heavy drinkers
- Diabetics
Dr. Steven Donohue, Townsville Public Health Unit director, noted the disease mainly affects “people who are elderly and sick with underlying diseases.” About 10 percent of those infected will die.
What are the symptoms?
The disease can be difficult to recognize because symptoms may appear between one and four weeks after infection. Key warning signs include:
- Fever
- Cough and trouble breathing
- Chest and muscle pain
- Headaches
- Confusion
- Seizures
“It is a very serious disease and it can progress very quickly,” warned Dr. Murdoch.
Treatment and prevention
Treatment involves several weeks of intravenous antibiotics in hospital, followed by up to six months of oral antibiotics.
Health officials advise people to take precautions during and after heavy rainfall:
- Wear protective gear when handling soil or water
- Use masks when using high-pressure hoses
- Cover open wounds
- Avoid contact with mud and floodwaters, especially for vulnerable individuals
The disease is primarily affecting southern and central Cairns areas, including Manoora, Manunda, and Edmonton.
Globally, melioidosis affects an estimated 165,000 people annually and causes about 89,000 deaths. The majority of cases occur in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand.
Queenslanders with concerns can call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for more information about melioidosis and other diseases.
FAQs About Melioidosis
What exactly is melioidosis and how is it spread?
Melioidosis is an infection caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, commonly found in soil and water in tropical regions. People become infected through direct contact with contaminated soil or water through cuts or scratches, by breathing in dust or water droplets during heavy rain, or by drinking contaminated water.
Why are we seeing so many cases in Northern Queensland right now?
The current outbreak is linked to the recent heavy rainfall and flooding in the region. When heavy rain occurs, the bacteria rise from deeper soil to the surface and can become airborne in water droplets, increasing the risk of infection. The unusually wet season has created ideal conditions for the bacteria to spread.
How can I tell if I have melioidosis?
Symptoms typically appear within 1-4 weeks after exposure and include fever, cough, chest pain, headache, difficulty breathing, and muscle pain. In severe cases, confusion and seizures may occur. If you experience these symptoms, especially after contact with soil or water during rainy conditions, seek medical attention immediately.
Is melioidosis contagious between people?
Melioidosis is rarely transmitted from person to person. The vast majority of infections come from direct environmental exposure to the bacteria in soil or water, not from other infected individuals.
How is melioidosis treated?
Treatment involves intensive antibiotic therapy, typically starting with several weeks of intravenous antibiotics in a hospital, followed by up to six months of oral antibiotics. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
How can I protect myself and my family from melioidosis?
To reduce your risk, wear protective clothing (boots, gloves) when gardening or working with soil, avoid outdoor activities during heavy rain if possible, cover open wounds when outdoors, wear masks when using pressure hoses, and stay away from floodwaters and mud, especially if you have underlying health conditions that increase your risk.
