Death Toll from Tropical Disease Outbreak in Northern Australia Rises to 31

Northern Australia is grappling with an outbreak of melioidosis, a rare tropical disease linked to heavy rainfall and flooding, which has claimed at least 31 lives so far in 2025, Anadolu Agency reported. Queensland’s health department reported four new cases last week—one in Townsville and three in Cairns—bringing the state’s total to 221 cases this year.

Melioidosis is caused by bacteria found in soil and groundwater in northern Australia and Southeast Asia. The bacteria can become airborne following heavy rains, increasing infection risks. In February, record-breaking rains and widespread flooding affected Townsville, Cairns, and nearby areas, contributing to the outbreak.

The latest fatality was reported in Queensland last week. However, public health officials, including Townsville’s Director of Public Health Dr. Steven Donohue, noted that new cases have significantly declined as weather conditions have dried. Dr. Donohue stated, “So far as we can see, the outbreak that we’ve had this year is probably over.”