In the wake of Queensland’s recent floods, health authorities have issued a stark warning: cases of melioidosis, a rare but potentially fatal bacterial infection, are on the rise. Since the beginning of the year, 12 people have died from the disease, with North Queensland experiencing an alarming surge in infections.
While melioidosis isn’t new, the recent outbreak has been directly linked to extreme weather events, which have disturbed bacteria lurking in the soil. With more heavy rainfall expected this season, it’s crucial that all of us – especially those in flood-affected areas – understand the risks, symptoms, and ways to protect ourselves.
What is melioidosis?
Melioidosis is an infectious disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, a bacteria which is naturally found in soil and water in tropical regions, particularly across northern Australia and Southeast Asia.
It thrives in wet and muddy environments, and outbreaks tend to occur following heavy rain, flooding, or cyclones when the bacteria become more mobile in the environment.
What’s causing the current outbreak
The recent spike in melioidosis cases has been linked to the widespread flooding across Queensland, particularly in the north. When floodwaters churn up soil, the bacteria are brought to the surface, increasing the likelihood of exposure.
Dr Steven Donohue, Director of the Townsville Public Health Unit, has warned that the risk of infection is particularly high right now, given the extreme weather conditions. In a recent interview with the ABC, he urged people in affected areas to take extra precautions to avoid coming into contact with contaminated soil or water.
“I’m not surprised at the number of deaths, but we are disturbed that this is a much bigger season than we normally see,” he said.
“If you’re older and sick, you should be making the sandwiches and leave [the clean-up] to younger people.”
This year has seen an unprecedented rise in cases, with 69 infections already recorded in Cairns and Townsville – the highest on record for the region.
Who is most at risk of
Although anyone can contract melioidosis, certain groups are at higher risk of severe illness.
- People with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, lung disease, or cancer.
- The elderly.
- People with weakened immune systems.
- Those with open wounds or cuts who come into contact with contaminated soil or water.
If you fall into one of those groups, the infection can be particularly dangerous and, in some cases, fatal.
How do you get infected?
Unlike some other bacterial diseases, it is not spread from person to person. Instead, infection occurs through direct contact with contaminated soil or water. The most common ways you can contract the disease include:
Through broken skin. Small cuts, scratches, or wounds provide an entry point for the bacteria when exposed to contaminated soil or floodwater.
By inhaling contaminated particles. Strong winds, high-pressure hoses, or activities like digging can stir up the bacteria, allowing it to be breathed in.
By drinking contaminated water. Though less common, drinking untreated water that contains the bacteria can also cause infection.
Symptoms to watch out for
Melioidosis can affect people in different ways, and symptoms may take anywhere from a few days to weeks to appear after exposure. It can present as:
- The flu with fever, chills, cough, and muscle aches.
- A chest infection with pneumonia-like symptoms.
- A skin infection with ulcers or abscesses.
- A bloodstream infection, which can lead to sepsis.
If left untreated, melioidosis can spread to different parts of the body, including the brain, joints, and internal organs, leading to severe complications. Because it mimics many other common illnesses, early diagnosis and treatment are critical.
How you can protect yourself
With the recent surge in cases, Queensland Health and infectious disease experts are urging people to take extra precautions, particularly in flood-affected regions. Here’s how you can reduce your risk:
Wear protective clothing. Use waterproof boots and gloves when gardening, handling soil, or cleaning up after floods.
Cover cuts and wounds. If you have any open wounds, keep them clean, dry, and covered with waterproof dressings.
Use masks for high-risk activities. When using high-pressure hoses or working in muddy environments, wearing a mask can help prevent inhaling contaminated particles.
Avoid walking barefoot in floodwaters or muddy areas. Always wear shoes to reduce direct contact with bacteria-laden soil.
Be cautious with untreated water. If you’re in an affected area, drink only bottled or treated water to avoid accidental ingestion of the bacteria.
What should you do if you think you have melioidosis?
If you develop symptoms, don’t wait to see your GP; seek medical attention immediately. Melioidosis requires prompt hospital treatment with antibiotics, and early intervention can prevent severe complications.
For the latest updates and health advice, visit the Queensland Health website or call 13 HEALTH.
