Death toll from melioidosis outbreak in northern Australia rises to 31

NDO - The death toll from an outbreak of tropical disease melioidosis linked to heavy rain and flooding in northern Australia has risen to 31.

According to the latest data from Queensland Health reported by ABC Radio yesterday (May 14), there were 31 deaths from melioidosis in the state in 2025.

A person from the coastal city of Townsville in northern Queensland died of melioidosis last week, the report said.

There were four new cases reported, including one in Townsville and three in Cairns, over the same period. The total number of cases reported in Queensland in 2025 was 221, an increase of 163 compared to the same period in 2024.

Melioidosis is a rare tropical disease that is spread through contact with bacteria found in soil and groundwater in northern Australia and Southeast Asia. After heavy rains, the bacteria can become airborne.

Townsville, Cairns and surrounding areas were hit by record rainfall in February causing widespread, devastating flooding.

Townsville Public Health Director Steven Donohue told the ABC cases had dropped significantly since the dry weather and authorities believed the outbreak may have "come to an end".

"This is a pretty dangerous disease, especially when it happens to sick people and the elderly. Fatalities are not uncommon," said Steven Donohue.

Previously, Queensland Health advised people to be alert to symptoms, including: Cough, fever and difficulty breathing; and advised people to wear shoes, gloves and masks when in contact with muddy water or soil...

Source: https://nhandan.vn/so-nguoi-tu-vong-vi-dich-benh-melioidosis-bung-phat-o-mien-bac-australia-tang-len-31-post879769.html