Media release by Barwon Health
Three local councils experiencing increasing cases of Buruli ulcer have joined forces with the Barwon South West Public Health Unit to raise awareness as infections continue to rise across the region.
Buruli ulcer (also known as Bairnsdale ulcer) is a skin disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans. The bacteria produce toxins that damage skin tissue, leading to ulceration and skin loss.
In recent years, cases in Victoria have risen significantly, particularly across the Mornington and Bellarine peninsulas. The disease is now spreading into new areas, including Melbourne, the Surf Coast and parts of Greater Geelong—especially Belmont, Highton, Newtown, Grovedale, Waurn Ponds, Wandana Heights and Marshall.
Last year saw the highest number of cases on record for the Geelong and Surf Coast region.
While research led by Barwon Health and CSIRO is ongoing, early diagnosis and treatment remains critical to improving patient outcomes.
The City of Greater Geelong, Surf Coast Shire, and Borough of Queenscliffe - local government areas where cases are increasing - are supporting a regional awareness campaign to encourage early detection and treatment.
Associate Professor Daniel O'Brien, Director of Infectious Diseases at Barwon Health, said timely diagnosis is essential.
"We know Buruli ulcer has an average incubation period of around 4.5 months, with cases typically emerging in winter following infection in summer. However, we are already seeing an earlier-than-expected increase across Geelong, the Surf Coast and the Bellarine," he said.
"This partnership aims to increase community awareness, helping people recognise symptoms, seek diagnosis and treatment early, and take steps to reduce their risk."
Research indicates transmission to humans from the environment that likely involves mosquitoes and possums. While most people acquire their infections in warmer months, they can occur year-round.
How to reduce your risk:
- Wear gloves, long sleeves and trousers when gardening or outdoors
- Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin on exposed skin
- Cover cuts and abrasions with dressings
- Clean and dress any new wounds promptly
- Eliminate standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding
- Install and maintain insect screens
- Avoid mosquito-prone areas, particularly at dawn and dusk
- Wash skin after contact with soil or water
- Seek medical advice for any slow-healing or unusual skin lesions
- Avoid handling sick or dead possums
