Illness can strike after heavy rain

RECENT rainfall may not have caused much in the way of destruction for Townsville residents, but they’re being urged to watch out for illness and disease the downpour could bring.

Melioidosis is a higher risk following periods of intense rainfall due to the soil-dwelling bacteria that cause the illness rising to the surface.

The disease can cause many uncomfortable and painful symptoms such as skin ulcers, abscesses, fever, weight loss, fatigue, coughs, shortness of breath, abdominal pain, headaches and confusion.

Townsville Public Health Unit public health physician Dr Nishila Moodley said case numbers for the disease were already high and the rainfall made for perfect conditions for a further increase. “Melioidosis can be a life-threatening illness and we are expecting to see case numbers increase due to the wet weather being experienced across the region,” Dr Moodley said.

“So far this year, we’ve already seen 20 reported cases in the Townsville HHS, which is similar to the number reported in 2019 following the floods.

“Melioidosis can be particularly severe for our more vulnerable community members such as those who are elderly, have a pre-existing condition such as diabetes, kidney disease or weakened immune system,” she said. “Those with increased risk factors should consider staying indoors during heavy rain or wind.”