Stormy nights and soaked days across the Top End have led to a higher risk of melioidosis. Territorians must be on high alert for melioidosis with the increase in monsoonal weather events this wet season following Cyclone Fina.
There has been a sustained increase in melioidosis cases in the Northern Territory (NT) especially over the past few weeks.
Last wet season (1 October 2024 to 30 April 2025), there were 65 cases of melioidosis, and 5 deaths reported in the NT.
For the current wet season, there have already been 25 cases reported, with 1 new case reported every 1-2 days since New Year's Eve.
The cases are represented in all age groups but the majority have been found in people over the age of 45. Males and females are almost equally represented.
Melioidosis bacteria live deep in the soil at the start of the wet season and heavy rain brings the bacteria in the soil and water to the surface. Wind can cause the bacteria to be blown into the air, which can then be inhaled through dust and droplets.
The Centre for Disease Control at NT Health is advising the public to be alerted to the possibility of acquiring melioidosis as we live in an environment with the bacteria it is important to take measures to prevent exposure to the bacteria.
Symptoms can include persistent fever, cough and shortness of breath but can also affect many variable parts of the body causing abscesses. Skin sores that don't heal can be caused by melioidosis bacteria. It is important that treatment for meliodosis is started as soon as possible.
The risk of melioidosis is greater in those who may be immunocompromised by diabetes, heavy alcohol consumption, chronic lung or renal disease and immunosuppressive therapy.
If left untreated, melioidosis can lead to severe pneumonia and sepsis, with around 10 % of cases leading to death. Already 3 cases this wet season have required ICU care.
To take precautions against melioidosis, Territorians are advised to:
🟠 Wear covered waterproof footwear when outdoors
🟠 Wear gloves while working in the garden or a soil-based environment
🟠 Wash, then cover sores and abrasions with waterproof dressings
🟠 Wear a face mask while using high pressure hoses around soil and paths
🟠 Stay indoors during heavy wind and rain
🟠 Seek medical attention early.
Anyone concerned about having melioidosis symptoms should visit their local GP, clinic or hospital.
