7 April 2011
Following the heavy rain in many parts of the Northern Territory, the Department of Health has issued advice for all residents and visitors to protect themselves against the serious, soil-borne disease melioidosis.
The risk of contracting melioidosis extends beyond the Top End, where the disease is usually found, and the disease has been known to affect people in the Barkly region and even further south in Central Australia.
A total of 56 cases of melioidosis was recorded from 1 October 2010 - 31 March 2011. This matches the number in the same reporting period last year, which was the worst year for recorded melioidosis cases in the NT. Three of these cases were in Central Australia.
"Melioidosis is a potentially life-threatening disease with a number of fatalities in the NT each year. It is caused by bacteria that live deep in the soil of the Top End during the dry season but some to the surface with water and mud after heavy rainfall," Centre for Disease Control Director Dr Vicki Krause said.
"Melioidosis can cause severe pneumonia and blood infection, particularly in people with underlying health conditions that impair the immune system," Dr Krause said.
"People risk being exposed to the bacteria through walking in muddy water and handling water or mud-soaked items. The bacteria may also become airborne through the use of high-pressure hoses."
To avoid contracting melioidosis the Department recommends wearing waterproof footwear when cleaning up after floods, and wearing gloves when handling soil or mud-soaked items. Masks or covering over the nose and mouth when using high-pressure hoses may offer some protection.
"While it is vital for all Territorians to take precautions, it is particularly important that at-risk groups be aware of the risks posed by melioidosis," Dr Krause said.
"People most at risk of developing melioidosis are those with underlying conditions such as diabetes, heavy alcohol intake, cancer, advanced age, kidney or lung disease and those being treated for cancer and on long term steroid therapy medicines.
"The symptoms of melioidosis can vary. Some people become extremely ill within a few days of becoming infected. Fever, headaches, confusion and breathing difficulties are all common symptoms. In some cases the onset of symptoms is slower with weight loss, intermittent fevers, skin ulcers, boils or chest and abdominal pain.
"The incubation period for acute disease can range from 1 to 21 days, meaning symptoms may appear relatively soon after infection but can take weeks before they appear."
People with risk factors are advised to stay indoors during periods of heavy wind and rain. People who work with soil such as gardeners and building tradespeople should always wear protective clothing, as healthy people can get the disease if they work in or are exposed to muddy soil or water in pooled muddy areas.
If anyone is concerned about melioidosis they are advised to contact their local GP or Hospital.
A fact sheet with more information of melioidosis is available at:
Media inquiries: Robin Osborne, Media Director, (08) 8999 2886 or 0488 692 781
