Deadly bacteria found in Australian waters claims two lives as urgent warning is issued – what you need to know
Health authorities have issued an urgent warning about a deadly bacteria called meliodose, which has killed two people in Australia, amid warnings that there could be more cases as wet weather continues to sweep parts of the country.
The two people who died from the disease and 22 others infected since October 2023 all lived in the Northern Territory, but there have also been cases in Queensland.
Six people contracted the disease last week, with health authorities urging anyone infected to seek immediate medical attention.
Authorities at the top end are on high alert over the possible rise in cases with the deadly disease likely to spread under tropical weather conditions.
“If left untreated, melioidosis can lead to severe pneumonia and blood poisoning, with around 10 per cent of infections leading to death,” Northern Territory Health said.
Meliodosis is an infectious disease caused by a bacterium found in contaminated tropical soil and water that can infect humans and animals.
Authorities in the Top End are on high alert about the possible increase in meliodose (stock image) after two people died and 22 others became infected with the disease
The disease can cause high fever, coughing, headache and chest pain.
Symptoms first appear 21 days after initial infection and the disease spreads when the bacteria containing the disease enter soil and water, especially during periods of heavy rain.
Meliodose can also be inhaled through dust and airborne droplets when the bacteria is blown by the wind.
The bacterium is commonly found in tropical climates, especially in parts of northern Australia where the bacterium is widespread.
There have also been nine confirmed cases of the disease in Queensland since January, which health officials in the state said was high for that time of year.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted Queensland Health for comment.
Meliodosis is found in tropical climates, especially in parts of northern Australia where the disease is widespread (stock image)
About 50 cases of the disease are reported in the Northern Territory each year, with most cases detected between November and April.
People have been advised to wear waterproof footwear when outdoors and to wear gloves when working in a ground environment.
Sores and abrasions on the skin should be washed and covered with a waterproof bandage to prevent the disease from spreading to a person through water or soil surfaces.
Authorities have urged people to stay indoors during periods of heavy rain and those infected with the disease should seek early medical attention.