A health warning has been issued in Victoria over Buruli ulcer after authorities in the state reported a rise in case numbers of the bacterial skin infection.
The Victorian Department of Health said on Tuesday 238 cases of Buruli ulcer have been recorded in the state in the year to October 2.
That compares to 207 cases to the same time last year, 197 infections for the same period in 2021 and 135 cases in 2020.
The health department said the disease is now “spreading geographically across Victoria and is no longer restricted to specific coastal locations”.
Most recently, cases have been on the rise across several suburbs in Geelong and Melbourne’s inner north and west.
Authorities said there is increasing evidence in Victoria that mosquito bites and possums are behind transmission of the disease, which is not spread from person to person.
Warmer months pose the highest risk, although it usually takes between four to five months for an ulcer to develop after an individual has been infected.
“Patients usually develop a painless lump or wound (known as a nodule or papule) which can initially be mistaken for an insect bite,” a statement said.
“Over time the lesion can slowly progress to develop into a destructive skin ulcer which is known as Buruli or Bairnsdale ulcer.
“Disease can occur at any age, but Buruli ulcer notifications are highest in people aged 60 years and above in Victoria. The risk of contracting Buruli ulcer, however, is still considered low.”
(Sky News)
