What’s the deal with melioidosis?

Metro North Public Health Physician James Smith

Reports of melioidosis, a rare and sometimes fatal tropical disease caused by a germ found in soil, have been increasing over the past year.

Between January and August 2025, 245 melioidosis cases and 36 deaths were recorded in Queensland, a significant jump in numbers compared with previous years. The majority of these cases occurred in Far North Queensland.

While this jump in cases is likely related to heavy rainfall, other potential causes for the jump are not clear and are being investigated.

Metro North Public Health Physician James Smith said that while cases of melioidosis in the South East Queensland region are rare, it is still important to be aware of its existence, particularly if you are travelling to northern Queensland or the Northern Territory.

“The germ that causes melioidosis is found deep in soil and in stagnant water. Most infections occur when skin cuts and sores come into contact with contaminated wet soil or water, but can also spread when people inhale tiny particles containing the germ or by drinking contaminated water,” he said.

“Symptoms typically begin between a day and three weeks after coming into contact with melioidosis, and vary widely. While some people with the infection may have very little illness, others will have severe illness that may include pneumonia (lung infection), sepsis (blood infection) and abscesses.

“Most healthy people who come into contact with the germ do not get sick, however people with underlying illnesses such as diabetes, chronic lung or kidney diseases, excessive alcohol intake, cancers, and those taking treatments which lower immunity are most at risk.”

While melioidosis is not a significant risk in South East Queensland, advice around prevention is the same as for other flood-related conditions.

“This includes avoiding flood water and flood mud where feasible, wearing long-sleeve shirts, long trousers, enclosed waterproof footwear and gloves when in contact with flood water and flood mud, and thoroughly washing cuts and abrasions with clean fresh water and then covering with waterproof dressings,” James said.

For further information, visit Melioidosis | Health and wellbeing | Queensland Government.