Community & Business
16 January, 2025
Warning over deadly soil disease spike
A SPIKE in cases of a dangerous disease picked up from the soil has prompted a warning by health authorities.
There have been eight cases of melioidosis notified in the Cairns and hinterland region within the past week.
Melioidosis is a serious disease found in ground water and soil. It causes death in up to 50% of untreated cases and up to 20% of treated cases.
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.
Dr Murdoch 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, lung problems, and those who are immunocompromised such as people receiving cancer treatment or have chronic conditions.” she 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.
“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.”
