News – AU – Carnivorous cases of Buruli ulcer discovered in suburbs of Melbourne

Cases of the carnivorous Buruli ulcer have been discovered in the suburbs of Essendon, Moonee Ponds and Brunswick West, Victoria’s Department of Health Said – the first time a non-coastal area has been identified as a potential risk area

The department said “multiple cases” had been discovered and genetic analysis of the bacteria as part of a research project suggested a common source of infection

The bacteria had also been isolated in the feces of a local opossum, but the source was unknown

Those caused by the bacterium mycobacterium ulcerans (M Ulcerants) can initially be mistaken for an insect bite

The department issued a health recommendation to health professionals that early diagnosis is critical to preventing skin and tissue loss

Usually the ulcer is associated with locations on the Mornington Peninsula, including Rye, Sorrento, Blairgowrie, and Tootgarook

Other coastal areas, including the Bellarine Peninsula and the Frankston and Seaford areas, are at moderate risk

“The recent detection of M Ulcers in Melbourne’s inner north mean this place is a new area of ​​interest, “said the health advisor

The disease is not person-to-person, and there is no evidence of transmission between possums and humans, according to the department

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Melbourne, Buruli ulcer, necrotizing fasciitis, Moonee ponds, skin ulcer, skin condition, Essendon