Melioidosis Death Toll in Australia’s Queensland Climbs to 31

2025-05-14 03:29:21

(MENAFN) The number of fatalities linked to melioidosis in Queensland has increased to 31 this year following another death, according to reports from local media on Wednesday.

A local media outlet reported that the most recent fatality occurred in Townsville within the past week.

Health authorities in Queensland have recorded 221 cases of melioidosis in 2025, a surge experts have labeled a major outbreak in the region.

The majority of infections have been concentrated in Cairns and Townsville, with a notable cluster appearing in northern Townsville suburbs.

Townsville Public Health Unit director Steven Donohue said those most vulnerable include people who consume alcohol heavily, older adults, and individuals with long-term health issues.

Melioidosis, an uncommon infection, is caused by a bacterium typically found in the soil and water of northern Australia and Southeast Asia.

Transmission usually occurs when the bacteria enter the body through skin abrasions or are inhaled, with this year's case numbers spiking following unprecedented flooding.

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