Why Buruli Ulcer Cases Are Rising in Victoria – And How to Protect Your Skin
Buruli ulcer is a growing public health concern in Victoria, with more and more cases reported each year — particularly across the Mornington Peninsula, Bellarine Peninsula, and Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs. Once rare and tropical, this flesh-eating skin disease is now reaching communities much closer to home.
But why is it spreading, and what can you do to protect yourself?
What Is Buruli Ulcer?
Buruli ulcer is a skin infection caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans. It begins as a painless bump or swelling and can progress to large skin ulcers if not treated early. The bacteria release toxins that destroy skin and soft tissue, which can lead to serious damage if ignored. While not contagious, the exact method of transmission is still being studied, with evidence suggesting mosquitoes and environmental factors play a role.
Why Are Cases Increasing in Victoria?
The exact reasons are still being investigated, but environmental factors are believed to be contributing. Urban expansion into mosquito-prone areas, combined with increased rainfall, may be creating ideal conditions for the bacteria to thrive. Local wildlife, including possums, have also been found to carry the bacteria, adding complexity to its transmission.
Who's at Risk?
Anyone living or spending time in commonly impacted areas can be at risk, especially if they:
- Spend time outdoors in affected regions
- Have minor cuts, scratches, or insect bites
- Delay treating wounds
Children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems may be particularly vulnerable.
How to Protect Yourself
Preventing Buruli ulcer starts with good wound hygiene and skin care, especially when you're outdoors:
- Use insect repellent on exposed skin
- Wear protective clothing
- Clean and cover any cuts or scratches immediately
- Wash skin thoroughly after outdoor activities
How Early Wound Care Can Help
Early treatment is essential. If you notice any unusual skin changes, seek medical advice promptly. In addition to medical treatment, effective wound care products can play a significant role in managing symptoms and supporting healing.
How Fidia HYALO4 Can Support Wound Healing
Fidia’s HYALO4 range is designed to support wound healing, particularly in hard-to-treat ulcers and skin injuries. These products harness the power of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the skin known for promoting tissue repair and hydration (source).
Ideal for dry wounds and skin ulcers, HYALO4 Skin helps to create a moist healing environment while supporting tissue regeneration. Its hyaluronic acid base enhances cellular repair and reduces healing time (Prosdocimi M, Bevilacqua C. Exogenous hyaluronic acid and wound healing)
Perfect for wounds at high risk of infection, HYALO4 Control combines hyaluronic acid with silver sulfadiazine, offering both healing and antimicrobial properties. It’s particularly useful in preventing secondary infections, a common complication in Buruli ulcer (source).
HYALO4 Start is formulated for wounds with signs of non-viable tissue. It assists in safe enzymatic debridement, helping your skin remove damaged tissue without pain and jumpstart the healing process (source).
Don't Wait – Protect Your Skin Today
As Buruli ulcer becomes more common in Victoria, early prevention and fast wound care are more important than ever. Whether you're camping in the bush, walking the dog along coastal trails, or simply gardening at home, make sure you have trusted wound care products on hand.
Explore the full HYALO4 range today and give your skin the care it deserves.
Stay protected. Stay informed. Start healing with Fidia HYALO4.