Source: Medical Journal of Australia.
Over 250 cases of Buruli ulcer have been confirmed in parts of Victoria with health officials saying it will continue to spread.
At least 266 cases have been reported in areas that include metropolitan Melbourne, Frankston, Essendon, Phillip Island, and parts of regional Victoria.
While the skin disease is not painful nor transmissible from human to human, there is an average incubation period of about four to five months. It usually starts with a spot that soon turns red and begins to swell, while a crusty scab and skin loss soon follows.
“It doesn’t kill you, but it can leave you pretty disfigured and messed up, for sure,” said Molecular Microbiologist Professor Tim Stinear at the University of Melbourne.
“It’s a nasty infection.”
Health officials say there are usually no other symptoms such as a fever but that every year since 2017 there have been about 200-300 cases.
People over 60 are most at risk with doctors urging anyone with symptoms to seek medical treatment early so that skin and tissue loss can be prevented.
9News speaks with Professor @tstinear about the flesh-eating Buruli ulcer that can look like an insect bite, but transform into very serious skin conditions. #9News pic.twitter.com/C1utXK0f4F
— 9News Melbourne (@9NewsMelb) February 24, 2021
Experts believe Buruli ulcer is spread through mosquitoes and possums as evidence of the skin disease has been found in possum poo.
To prevent infection, the Victorian government suggests mosquito proofing your home by using repellants, mosquito nets and using insect screens.
They also recommend putting on long-sleeved pants and shirts while working in the garden and that if you get a scratch or cut, to immediately wash and sanitize the area.
The Department of Health says that the risk is relatively low at the moment but it’s important to go to your doctor for treatment if you think you have the Buruli ulcer.
“Early diagnosis is critical to prevent skin and tissue loss,” they said.
“Buruli ulcer must be notified to the Department within five days of diagnosis.”
