Two killed by melioidosis in Mackay, 21 across Queensland
A potentially fatal bacterial disease has taken two new lives in Queensland, following a surge of deaths in the north.
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People working outdoors have been warned to take precautions as hospitals see a significant increase in melioidosis cases.
Wet weather in North Queensland has seen the potentially fatal bacterial disease infect 142 people across Queensland this year with 21 confirmed deaths, including two in the Mackay Hospital and Health Service region.
An elderly woman died in February, and an elderly man passed away last week.
It follows the deaths of eight people in Townsville this wet season.
A MHHS spokeswoman said the disease could be found in groundwater and soil and urged people to take sensible precautions when doing outdoor activities.
People with diabetes, kidney or lung problems, those who use alcohol excessively or are immunocompromised are at the highest risk.
People should avoid contact with soil and floodwaters, particularly after heavy rain, wear a mask while using a hose or high-pressure cleaner around soil, cover open wounds and broken skin with waterproof dressings, wear protective footwear and gloves, and wash skin thoroughly after exposure to soil or muddy water.
Symptoms of melioidosis varied but could include fever, cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, disorientation, headache, seizures, abdominal discomfort, skin abscesses or ulcerations, joint pain, and swelling.
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Originally published as Two killed by melioidosis in Mackay, 21 across Queensland
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