Daijiworld Media Network – Brisbane

Brisbane, Apr 9: The death toll from the ongoing melioidosis outbreak in northeastern Australia has risen to 26, as Queensland continues to grapple with the aftermath of historic flooding earlier this year.

The Queensland Department of Health reported 10 new cases of the rare tropical disease in the past week, including one fatality, pushing the total death count to 26. The outbreak has been closely linked to severe flooding and unprecedented rainfall that struck the state’s tropical northeast coast in January and February.

Townsville, the worst-affected city, has already recorded its wettest year in history. By April 5, the city had received 2,419.8 mm of rain since January 1, surpassing its previous annual rainfall record of 2,400 mm set in 2000.

Health officials have urged residents in flood-impacted regions to take precautions to avoid contact with soil and muddy water. Queensland Health has advised wearing gloves and sturdy footwear while gardening or working outdoors and using masks while operating high-pressure hoses around soil to reduce the risk of exposure.

Melioidosis, a disease caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, is naturally found in soil and water in parts of Southeast Asia and northern Australia. It typically becomes airborne after heavy rains and is known for its unpredictable and often severe symptoms.

Symptoms of melioidosis can develop anywhere between one to four weeks after exposure, though some cases have emerged months or even years later. The illness may present as a localized skin sore, or escalate to affect internal organs or the entire body, often making it difficult to diagnose.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with public health campaigns urging vigilance in the affected regions.