Community
10 January, 2025
Soil disease warning
FAR North Queenslanders are being asked to be extra vigilant when coming into contact with soil and muddy water, following a spike in cases of a dangerous disease in the Cairns region after recent rainfall.
There have been eight cases of melioidosis notified in the Cairns and Hinterland region within the past week. This is a high number of cases and a concern considering the wet season is not in full swing.
Melioidosis is a serious disease found in ground water and soil. It causes death in up to 50 per cent of untreated cases and up to 20 per cent of treated cases. Early recognition and treatment are important.
Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service Tropical Public Health Services director Dr Jacqueline Murdoch said heavy rainfall brought the melioidosis bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei into surface water and soil.
She said disease could occur when skin abrasions or wounds came into contact with wet soil or water, or by breathing in dust or droplets, especially during storms, or spray from high pressure hoses. “Melioidosis adversely affects people with additional health issues such as diabetes, kidney problems and lung problems,” Dr Murdoch said.
The disease also compromises people who are immunocompromised, such as those receiving cancer treatment or who have chronic conditions, Dr Murdoch said.
“Symptoms of acute melioidosis may include fever, cough and difficulty breathing. The effects can be very severe and often require hospitalisation for antibiotic treatment,” she said.
“Sometimes the disease presents as superficial skin infections or abscesses in various part of the body.
“If anyone has noticed non-healing wounds or persistent fevers over several weeks, then they should be seen by their GP and checked for this infection, as it can require prolonged antibiotic treatment.”
Dr Murdoch said there was no vaccine to prevent melioidosis, therefore it was vital that people – particularly those with underlying medical conditions – took proper precautions.
“This includes avoiding contact with soil or muddy water, particularly after heavy rains,” she said.
“Wear protective footwear – not open footwear such as thongs and sandals – when outdoors, especially in muddy conditions.
“Consider wearing a mask when using a high-pressure hose around soil or spraying high-pressure bore water.
“Make sure you wear gloves while working in the garden or on farms and covering abrasions and sores with waterproof dressings.
“After any exposure to soil or muddy water, you should wash yourself thoroughly, preferably in a shower.
“People with diabetes should maintain optimal foot care, with help from a podiatrist if necessary.
“And people with risk factors, such as diabetes, kidney problems, lung problems, people who have heavy alcohol consumption, and people on medication that lowers their immune system including cancer treatments should stay indoors during storms when there is heavy wind and rain.”
For more information about melioidosis visit https://bit.ly/3PqkPnl
