Top Enders are being warned to take precautions against melioidosis following six cases, including one death, that have occurred already this wet season.

The Centre for Disease Control is warning that contact with mud, groundwater and aerosolised soil during the wet season increases the chance of exposure to the potentially fatal disease.

“During the dry season, melioidosis bacteria live deep in the soil but after rain, larger amounts of the bacteria are brought to the surface and this poses a risk of exposure to people of the Top End,” Centre for Disease Control Director Dr Vicki Krause said. Last wet season, there were 66 cases of melioidosis reported in the Northern Territory

“Cuts and sores are the perfect entry point for the bacteria to invade the body but it can also be inhaled if the bacteria become airborne via the wind.”

Dr Krause said melioidosis infection can lead to severe pneumonia and blood poisoning and 10-15 per cent of infections are fatal, even with best-practice medical care.

“Symptoms such as fever, cough and breathing difficulties are most common for melioidosis but presentations can vary greatly,” Dr Krause said.

The time from infection to acute disease is from one to 21 days. In some cases the onset of symptoms is slower and will include features like weight loss or sores that do not heal.

“People with diabetes are particularly at risk as well as those with weaker immune systems, including people with kidney disease, lung disease and those undergoing cancer or steroid treatments,” Dr Krause said. “People who consume large amounts of alcohol are also at a greater risk of getting melioidosis, including people who binge drink.

“It is important that people who are particularly at risk of getting melioidosis stay indoors during heavy wind and rain.”

To avoid contracting melioidosis, wear waterproof footwear around mud, soil and areas of pooled water and wear gloves when handling soil or mud-soaked items.

“People who work with soil, including gardeners, construction workers and tradies, should always wear protective clothing because healthy people can also get the disease if they are exposed to mud, pooled water or aerosolised soil,” Dr Krause said.

“People using high-pressure hoses around soil should cover their mouths and noses as the bacteria can be inhaled.”

Anyone concerned that they might have melioidosis should contact their local GP or hospital. A fact sheet with more information on melioidosis is available at: http://www.health.nt.gov.au/library/scripts/objectifyMedia.aspx?file=pdf/43/46.pdf&siteID=1&str_title=Melioidosis.pdf

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