6 January 2012
Top Enders are being warned to protect against the potentially fatal disease melioidosis with 18 cases of the bacterial infection diagnosed already this Wet Season.
The Centre for Disease Control advised that 16 of the 18 cases have been from the greater Darwin area, with one each also in Katherine and Nhulunbuy.
Centre for Disease Control Director, Dr Vicki Krause warned that contact with mud, ground water and soil during the Wet Season increases the likelihood of exposure to the melioidosis bacteria.
"The melioidosis bacteria live deep in the soil during the Dry Season, but heavy rains bring the bacteria to surface level. The bacteria can then enter the body via cuts and sores and can also be inhaled if stirred up by the wind during a storm.
"Since 1 October 2011, 18 people have been diagnosed with melioidosis, with 15 in December alone. We've also already seen our first case for 2012."
Dr Krause explained that people with compromised immunity can be at a greater risk of developing melioidosis.
"People with risk factors such as diabetes, hazardous alcohol intake, kidney disease, lung disease, cancer and treatment for cancer and those on steroid therapy should stay indoors during heavy wind or rain," she said.
"All 18 people diagnosed with melioidosis this season have had one or more risk factors."
To reduce the risk of contracting melioidosis the Department of Health recommends wearing waterproof footwear around mud, soil and areas of pooled water and to wear gloves when handling soil or mud soaked items.
"Healthy people can get the diseases when exposed to mud, pooled water or aerosolized soil so those who work outdoors such as gardeners and building tradespeople should always wear protective clothing," Dr Krause said.
"Anyone using high pressure hoses around soil should ensure their mouth and nose are properly covered to prevent them from inhaling the bacteria."
According to Dr Krause, melioidosis can cause severe pneumonia and blood poisoning and has a mortality rate of 10-15 per cent, even with best practice medical care.
"Symptoms of melioidosis can vary greatly but most commonly we see indications of pneumonia such as fever, cough and breathing difficulties," she said.
"The incubation period from time of infection to acute disease can range from 1 to 21 days. In some cases the onset of symptoms are slower and will include features like weight loss or sores that do not heal."
Anyone concerned about melioidosis should contact their local GP or hospital.
A useful fact sheet with more information on melioidosis is available at:
Media Contact: Robin Osborne 8999 2886 or 0488 692 781
