Health alert – Buruli ulcer bacteria identified in inner west Melbourne

Buruli ulcer bacteria identified in inner west Melbourne

Status: Active

Date issued: 23 February 2021 (update to Advisory issued 31 October 2019)

Issued by: Adjunct Clinical Professor Brett Sutton, Chief Health Officer

Issued to: Health professionals and visitors/residents in the Essendon, Moonee Ponds, Brunswick West areas of inner-Melbourne

Buruli ulcer is a skin infection caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans (M. ulcerans).
Lesions typically present as a slowly developing painless nodule or papule which can initially be mistaken for an insect bite. They can progress to a destructive skin ulcer which is known as Buruli ulcer or Bairnsdale ulcer.
Several cases of Buruli ulcer have occurred in the Essendon, Moonee Ponds and Brunswick West areas of inner Melbourne.
A genetic analysis of bacteria isolated from these people as part of a research project suggests a common source of infection in the area.
The risk of acquiring Buruli ulcer in these areas is considered low. However, this is the first non-coastal area in Victoria to be recognised as a potential area of risk.
Early diagnosis is critical to prevent skin and tissue loss – consider the diagnosis in patients with a persistent ulcer, nodule, papule, or oedema and cellulitis especially on exposed parts of the body.
Public health laboratory testing for Buruli ulcer is free for patients. A handling fee may be charged by private pathology companies.
Buruli ulcer must be notified to the Department within five days of diagnosis.
There is increasing evidence that mosquitoes play a role in transmission, so reducing mosquito breeding sites and avoiding mosquito bites are both important prevention measures.

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne.