Melioidosis death toll rises to 20 in Queensland

Health authorities in Queensland are on high alert after the death toll from melioidosis reached 20. The latest victim was an elderly man from the Townsville health district. This marks the eighth death in that area since the wet season began on November 1. The Cairns health district has reported 11 deaths this year, while one person died in Mackay in February. With more heavy rain expected, officials are warning vulnerable people to stay away from mud and keep cuts clean. The disease can spread through contact with soil or infected droplets. Queensland Health confirmed 125 cases of melioidosis this year, mainly from the Cairns and Townsville regions. There have also been infections in other districts including Mackay and Torres Strait. Infectious disease expert Paul Griffin described the outbreak as the most serious seen to date. He noted that cases and deaths are higher than usual. Griffin expressed concern over the expanding geography of melioidosis, which appears to be affecting areas where it was once uncommon. As communities prepare for more rain, officials advise taking precautions. People can contract the disease through cuts or by inhaling contaminated droplets. Those at higher risk include the elderly, people with chronic health conditions, and heavy alcohol users. The Townsville Hospital continues to emphasize the seriousness of melioidosis. Symptoms include fever, cough, muscle pain, and headaches. Experts recommend wearing gloves and protective clothing when dealing with soil or floodwater, and using masks when cleaning muddy surfaces.