A survivor of melioidosis in Far North Queensland is urging people to take the disease seriously, as the number of reported cases has reached record-breaking levels.
Debbie-Joy Manttan, a Cairns resident, considers herself lucky to be alive, though she continues to deal with long-term health complications after contracting the bacterial infection in 2022. Despite living in the region for two decades, she had never heard of melioidosis—a potentially fatal disease caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, which thrives in soil and water.
The Far North Queensland region is experiencing an alarming surge in cases, with 87 infections reported across the Cairns and Townsville regions since the beginning of 2024. Tragically, 12 people have died, including nine in Cairns and three in Townsville.
A Life-Threatening Ordeal
Manttan recalls the moment she realized something was seriously wrong in March 2022.
She arrived at Cairns Hospital’s emergency department experiencing severe fevers and chills.
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“The chills were so intense that I was in tears from the pain. I just couldn’t get warm,” she said.
It took several days for doctors to diagnose her with melioidosis, as the bacteria had entered her bloodstream. Experts say it can be contracted through cuts in the skin, inhalation, or contaminated water exposure, with the wet season posing the greatest risk.
In Manttan’s case, doctors suspect she breathed in the bacteria after heavy rainfall, and her weakened immune system—due to recent major surgery and diabetes—put her at a higher risk of severe infection.
She spent a month in hospital, followed by long-term outpatient treatment. The infection spread to her leg, causing bone fractures and requiring multiple casts and wheelchairs for nearly two years.
“My leg actually broke twice because of the infection,” she explained.
After extensive antibiotic treatments and medical care at home, Manttan was officially discharged late last year.
Despite her ongoing recovery, she remains deeply concerned about the rising number of cases and the lack of public awareness surrounding the disease.
A ‘Startling’ Increase in Cases
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has described the sharp rise in infections as “startling,” urging Queensland Health to do more to educate the public on preventative measures.
“Part of keeping people safe is delivering the right health messages—proper footwear, protective gear, and increased awareness can all help reduce risk,” Crisafulli said.
Queensland Health Minister Tim Nicholls echoed these concerns, stressing that melioidosis is a well-known disease in North Queensland and that public health alerts have been issued.
“We’ve consistently warned about the dangers of this disease, but this year’s numbers are higher than expected,” he said.
Experts at the Australasian Society of Infectious Diseases have noted a gradual rise in melioidosis cases over the past few years. However, 2024’s outbreak is particularly concerning.
Infectious disease specialist Dr. Trent Yarwood explained that heavy rainfall plays a key role in bringing the bacteria to the surface of the soil, where it can then become airborne through splashing water droplets.
“What we don’t fully understand yet is how long the bacteria can remain in the air,” Dr. Yarwood said.
He emphasized that those with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems—such as diabetes, kidney disease, or cancer—are at the highest risk of severe complications from melioidosis.
Symptoms and Preventative Measures
The Tropical Public Health Service has outlined key symptoms and prevention strategies for the disease.
Symptoms of melioidosis include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Cough
- Skin infections or abscesses
Ways to protect yourself:
- Wear a mask when using a high-pressure hose
- Wear shoes and gloves when gardening
- Avoid high-pressure water activities if you have a pre-existing health condition
- Seek urgent medical attention if symptoms develop
A Call for More Awareness and Research
Manttan believes stronger public awareness campaigns, increased research, and more funding are needed to help combat melioidosis and prevent further deaths.
“Perhaps we do need more awareness, more research, more funding—because one life is precious, no matter what,” she said.
Her advice to others living in the tropics is to take extra precautions and never ignore potential symptoms.
“Try to do everything you can to avoid getting it—because it is a nasty bacteria.”
As the wet season continues, health officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary steps to reduce their exposure to this deadly disease.
