What's happened
Victoria is experiencing a rise in Buruli ulcer cases, with 344 reported as of December 17, 2024. Chief Health Officer Prof. Ben Cowie warns of the disease's spread beyond coastal areas, urging protective measures against mosquito bites, particularly for those over 60.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, Prof. Ben Cowie emphasized that 'cases remained high' and warned that the disease is spreading geographically across Victoria. The Independent noted that the lesions can be mistaken for insect bites, stressing the importance of early treatment to prevent severe outcomes. Additionally, research indicates that Buruli ulcer has become endemic in Batemans Bay, NSW, with possums identified as potential reservoirs for the bacteria, as reported in The Guardian.
How we got here
Buruli ulcer, a flesh-eating disease, has been present in Australia since the 1940s. Recent increases in cases in Victoria, particularly in Ascot Vale, have raised concerns about its geographic spread, with health officials noting a significant rise in notifications this year.
More on these topics
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Victoria is the second most populated state of Australia. Victoria is also the second smallest state by land area and is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy.
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Buruli ulcer () is an infectious disease characterized by the development of painless open wounds. The disease is limited to certain areas of the world, most cases occurring in Sub-Saharan Africa and Australia. The first sign of infection is a small painl
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Australia, officially known as the Commonwealth of Australia, is a sovereign country comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands.