A mysterious flesh-eating disease has spread to more parts of Melbourne, with several cases identified in Pascoe Vale South and Strathmore in the city’s north.
Victoria’s deputy chief health officer of communicable disease, Associate Professor Deborah Friedman, said the risk of acquiring Buruli ulcer in these suburbs was considered low, although they were now recognised as potential areas of risk.
Buruli ulcer has long been associated with coastal Victoria, but was first identified in inland Melbourne – in Essendon, Moonee Ponds and Brunswick West – early last year.
Friedman said a genetic analysis of bacteria isolated from the new cases suggested a “common source of infection in the area” with the cases in 2021.
The potential source has not been established, although the bacteria were isolated from the faeces of a local possum, the Department of Health said.
Scientists have said that ringtail and brushtail possums are probably a key carrier, and mosquitoes likely play a part in carrying Mycobacterium ulcerans, the bacteria that causes the ulcer, from marsupials to humans.
In a health advisory to health professionals and residents of Pascoe Vale South and Strathmore, Friedman said there was increasing evidence that mosquitoes played a role in transmission, so reducing mosquito-breeding sites and avoiding mosquito bites were important prevention measures.
“Early diagnosis is critical to prevent skin and tissue loss,” she said. A lesion can be mistaken for an insect bite, and over time can develop into a destructive skin ulcer which is known as Buruli or Bairnsdale ulcer.
People are being urged to cover their body while working outside, reduce areas where water can pool and wash and cover scratches received while working outside.
The highest risk areas for Buruli ulcer are Rye, Sorrento, Blairgowrie and Tootgarook on the Mornington Peninsula.
Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads, Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff on the Bellarine Peninsula, along with bayside suburbs Frankston and Seaford, are considered moderate risk.
Victorian cases are reported throughout the year, but typically peak from June to November, the department said. There have been 39 cases so far this year.
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