A deadly surge in cases of the tropical bacterial infection melioidosis has health authorities in far north Queensland, Australia on high alert. Two people have died in the region after contracting the disease, which spreads through contaminated soil, water, and air. The spike in infections since the beginning of the wet season has experts concerned about a possible link to recent heavy rainfall in the area.
Sharp Rise in Melioidosis Cases Compared to Previous Years
Queensland health data reveals an alarming trend – in just the first six weeks of 2025, a total of 43 melioidosis cases have been recorded. This figure is approximately double the number seen during the same period in recent years. The bulk of these infections have occurred in the Cairns and Townsville areas.
Dr Jacqueline Murdoch, director of Tropical Public Health Services in Cairns, emphasized the severity of the situation:
“We’ve had a very big season of melioidosis so far. We have nearly 40 cases [in the Cairns and Hinterland region] since the beginning of the wet season. Sadly that includes two deaths.”
– Dr Jacqueline Murdoch
Heavy Rainfall a Suspected Factor in Bacterial Spread
Experts suspect the spike in cases may be connected to the heavy rains that have drenched the region. Dr Murdoch explained that the downpours could have brought the bacteria to the soil surface, while ongoing wet conditions allow it to circulate more readily. Many recent infections appear to have been contracted by breathing in contaminated air.
“When it’s windy, when there’s been heavy rain, it can circulate in the air and people breathe it in. Most of the cases that we’re seeing are cases affecting the lungs or people getting really sick with sepsis.”
– Dr Jacqueline Murdoch
Warnings Issued for High-Risk Individuals
Health authorities are urging people in high-risk categories to be vigilant for potential symptoms and seek prompt medical attention. Those considered most vulnerable include:
- People with diabetes
- Those with kidney or lung problems
- Individuals undergoing cancer treatment
Melioidosis can manifest in various ways, ranging from localized skin infections to severe systemic disease. The Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service cautions that the infection can prove fatal in up to 20% of treated cases. Common symptoms of acute melioidosis include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing
Superficial skin infections and abscesses in different parts of the body can also occur. Dr Murdoch advised that anyone experiencing persistent fevers over several weeks or non-healing wounds should see their GP to be checked for the infection.
Continued Monitoring and Precautions Necessary
As the wet season progresses, health authorities in far north Queensland will need to remain on high alert for further melioidosis cases. The public, especially those in high-risk groups, must stay informed about the threat and take precautions to minimize exposure. Prompt diagnosis and treatment will be critical to prevent this regional outbreak from claiming additional lives.
With the spectre of a changing climate and more extreme weather events on the horizon, health experts are grappling with the potential for infectious diseases like melioidosis to impact public health in new and challenging ways. Continued surveillance, research, and proactive planning will be essential to mount an effective response and safeguard communities.
