Summer ulcer concerns
People have been warned of the risks of Buruli ulcer, which is linked to mosquitoes.
A mosquito bite could be more than an irritation, with health authorities warning bites could lead to a bacterial infection.
Victorians living in or visiting coastal areas like Bass Coast, have been warned of the risks of Buruli ulcer and urged to take precautions against mosquito bites this summer, as cases continue to emerge across the state.
Last week, Acting Minister for Health Ingrid Stitt said new data highlights a growing number of Victorians are presenting with the infection, with 363 cases in 2023 - the highest number recorded since the infection emerged in Victoria in 2004.
Minister Stitt said while most of these cases are of low severity, people should take precautions to avoid contracting the bacterial infection as warmer weather provides mosquitoes with an ideal breeding environment.
Buruli ulcer is an infection linked to mosquitos that can cause significant skin damage. The condition can be treated with antibiotics, making early diagnosis and treatment vital.
Symptoms for the infection include spots that look like insect bites, ulcers, painful lumps, limb swelling, redness of the skin and occasionally people can develop severe pain and fever.
Bass Coast Health CEO Jan Child said so far no cases of the Buruli ulcer had been recorded in the shire, but staff were on alert.
"If you are at all worried, please come to the Emergency Department, or the Urgent Care Centre in Cowes," Ms Child advised.
"Even if you aren't sure, go and get it checked out."
You can take simple and practical steps to reduce the risk of contracting Buruli ulcer, including:
- Covering up by wearing long, loose-fitting clothing - mosquitos can bite through tight clothing
- Using insect repellents containing Picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin
- Checking the repellent label before applying to children - spraying or rubbing repellent on children's clothes is recommended, avoiding their skin especially their hands
- Limiting outdoor activity if there is a significant uptick in mosquitoes and using 'knockdown' fly spray, mosquito coils or plug-in repellent while sitting or eating outdoors
- Removing stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed around the home or a campsite
- Making sure windows are fitted with mosquito netting or screens
- Promptly wash any new scratches or cuts and protect with a dressing
- Wash exposed skin contaminated by soil or water after outdoor activities
The government has committed $1.1 million for the Beating Buruli project which aims to better understand how Buruli ulcer is transmitted and to determine additional effective ways to prevent and reduce infection.
More information on Buruli ulcer: betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/Buruli-ulcer#prevention-of-buruli-ulcer
