Top Enders have been reminded that the current heavy rains are providing ideal conditions for the bacteria which causes the potentially deadly soil-borne disease, melioidosis.
Melioidosis is a serious disease caused by germs in the soil that surface after heavy rains. These germs enter the body through cuts and sores or can be breathed in during rain and windy conditions.
There have been six cases of melioidoisis diagnosed in the Top End this Wet Season, with four people requiring intensive care management and one person has died.
Melioidosis has claimed 118 lives in the Top End over the last 26 years.
Director of the Centre for Disease Control, Dr Vicki Krause, said the risk of melioidosis was greatest for people with diabetes or kidney disease, those who drink too much alcohol or those with a weakened immune system.
An alert is out for people to protect themselves from melioidosis by:
● Wearing shoes during the wet season
● Wearing gloves when working outside
● Wear a mask when using a high pressure hose
● Stay indoors during storms
● Taking it easy with alcohol
“Most cases have conditions making them more susceptible so people need to be aware of these conditions and modify their activities where possible,” Dr Krause said.
The most common symptoms for melioidosis were a fever, a cough and breathing difficulties but presentations can vary greatly.
“The time from exposure and infection to acute disease is from one to 21 days,” Dr Karuse said.
In some cases the onset of symptoms is slower and will include features like weight loss or sores that do not heal. A sore that does not heal in 2 weeks should be assessed by a doctor.
“It is important people new to the Territory are aware of this disease, melioidosis, and take precautions where possible and seek medical attention should symptoms develop, said Dr Krause.
Anyone concerned they might have melioidosis should contact their local GP or hospital.
For more information visit health.nt.gov.au or web search ‘melioidosis fact sheet’.
Media Contact: Fred McCue 0401 119 792