The death toll from a rare tropical disease outbreak has climbed to 26, according to the latest figures from Queensland’s Department of Health.

The outbreak of melioidosis, linked to extreme weather conditions earlier this year, has sparked growing concern across the state’s northeast coast.

In the past week alone, health officials confirmed 10 new cases of the soil-borne illness, including one additional fatality. The surge in infections has been traced back to the heavy rainfall and severe flooding that inundated the region in January and February, creating ideal conditions for the disease to spread.

Melioidosis is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, commonly found in soil and surface water in tropical areas like northern Australia and Southeast Asia. Experts say the bacteria can enter the body through cuts, abrasions, or inhalation, with transmission risks spiking after major storms when contaminated soil particles become airborne.

Townsville, a major city hit hard by the flooding, has borne the brunt of the outbreak. The city recorded its wettest year ever, with 2,419.8 millimeters of rainfall as of April 5—eclipsing the previous record of 2,400 millimeters set in 2000. Health authorities warn that the saturated environment has fueled the spread of the bacteria.

Queensland Health has responded by issuing urgent safety guidelines for residents in affected areas. They’re advising people to avoid contact with soil and muddy water, wear protective footwear and gloves while gardening or working outdoors, and use masks when operating high-pressure water hoses near soil.

Officials are particularly concerned for those with underlying health conditions, who may face higher risks of severe infection. The department is actively monitoring the situation and urging the public to stay vigilant as the outbreak continues to unfold.

Reporting from Queensland, this is the latest on a public health crisis tied to nature’s extremes. (ILKHA)