Victoria warns against Buruli Ulcer surge on the Coast this summer

Buruli ulcer is a skin disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans.

As the sun blazes across Victoria (some days anyway), residents and visitors are being alerted to the surge in Buruli ulcer cases, a bacterial infection transmitted by mosquitoes.

The Acting Minister for Health, Ingrid Stitt, is urging awareness, encouraging Victorians, especially those in coastal areas, to be aware of the risks and take preventive measures against mosquito bites.

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.

New data has revealed a significant uptick in Buruli ulcer cases, with 363 reported in 2023—the highest since the infection’s emergence in the state in 2004. While most cases are of low severity, health authorities emphasize the importance of precautions, particularly in the warmer weather conducive to mosquito breeding.

Buruli ulcer, linked to mosquito bites, can lead to substantial skin damage. Early detection is crucial, and the infection is treatable with antibiotics.

Symptoms include insect bite-like spots, ulcers, painful lumps, limb swelling, skin redness, and, in severe cases, intense pain and fever.

The Allan Labor Government is urging the public to adopt simple steps to reduce the risk of contracting Buruli ulcer:

1. Cover Up: Wear long, loose-fitting clothing, as mosquitoes can bite through tight garments.
2. Use Repellents: Apply insect repellents containing Picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin.
3. Child Safety: Check repellent labels before applying to children; opt for spraying or rubbing repellent on their clothes, avoiding direct skin contact.
4. Limit Outdoor Activity: Reduce outdoor activities during peak mosquito times; use fly spray, mosquito coils, or plug-in repellents when outdoors.
5. Eliminate Stagnant Water: Remove stagnant water sources around homes or campsites where mosquitoes breed.
6. Secure Windows: Ensure windows are fitted with mosquito netting or screens.
7. Maintain Hygiene: Promptly wash new scratches or cuts, protecting them with dressings.
8. Post-Outdoor Care: Wash exposed skin contaminated by soil or water after outdoor activities.

Buruli ulcer, caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, is a skin disease leading to skin loss and ulceration due to bacterial toxins. The bacteria are found in the environment, possibly transmitted by mosquitoes and possums in Victoria. The disease is spreading across the region, with 200 to 340 cases annually since 2017.

Although not transmitted person-to-person, household members of patients are advised to monitor for non-healing skin lesions and seek medical assessment if exposed to the same environmental source. The exact mode of human infection remains unknown.

The Labor Government has allocated $1.1 million to the Beating Buruli project, aimed at better understanding transmission and identifying effective prevention methods.

Acting Minister for Health Ingrid Stitt stressed the importance of precaution, stating, “With cases of the Buruli ulcer on the rise, Victorians should understand the risks and take precautions—particularly those living or visiting coastal towns this summer.”

As summer temperatures soar, the message is clear: stay bite-free, stay safe.

For more information, visit the Better Health Channel here.

Words by Staff Writer