Mosquitos could be spreading flesh-eating bacteria, here's what to know

Mosquitos could be spreading flesh-eating bacteria, here's what to know
© Photo by icon0.com on Pexels.com
Mosquitos could be spreading flesh-eating bacteria, here's what to know
More under this ad

Mosquitos could be responsible for transmitting a flesh-eating bacteria behind chronic debilitating skin disease that causes painful ulcers and permanent disfigurement. Here is how worried you should be.

The latest study found that some mosquitoes may feed on both possums and humans and can become carriers of flesh-eating bacteria behind Buluri ulcer - a devastating skin disease that causes painful ulcers, permanent disfigurement, and even long-term disability in people.

Discover our latest podcast

This newly discovered link could explain the spread of the condition that is already present in at least 33 countries with tropical, subtropical, and temperate climates across Africa, South America, and the Western Pacific regions.

More under this ad
More under this ad

Here is how worried you should be.

Meanwhile, here's how you can prevent mosquitoes from getting inside your house this summer.

Also, the food you eat could be the reason you attract these bloodthirsty pests and why their bites itch.

A tick-borne virus is on the rise in the UK, these are initial symptoms to watch for.

Mosquitoes could be behind flesh-eating bacteria spread

Molecular microbiologist Timothy Stinear of the University of Melbourne reported an interesting link that could explain the spread of Mycobacterium ulcerans (or M. ulcerans) - a devastating flesh-eating bacteria harboured by furry animals in areas across Australia and Africa.

His study showcased at the ASM Microbe 2023 meeting in Houston, Texas was looking at the transmission of the nasty bug between possums and humans.

More under this ad
More under this ad

Mosquitoes would normally not be a carrier of the bacteria, but Stinear found that a small number of pests had recently fed on both species.

More under this ad
More under this ad

The results of his study revealed on June 18 were based on 13 mosquitoes in southeastern Australia and showed that two of the little bloodsuckers have become a method of transit for M. ulcerans.

More under this ad
More under this ad

An earlier preliminary study, also by Stinear, found that the bacteria were identical in mosquitoes, possums, and people, meaning it could easily be transmitted between the three species.

Read more:

Heart disease: Risk of the serious condition could be increased when you feel this common emotion

These deadly diseases soar during heatwaves: Here's how to protect yourself

Should we be worried?

Buruli ulcer is a chronic debilitating disease that affects the skin and bones and can lead to painful ulcers, permanent disfigurement, and even long-term disability.

More under this ad
More under this ad

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is present in at least 33 countries with tropical, subtropical, and temperate climates across Africa, South America, and Western Pacific regions.

The disease is thought to be transmitted by possums in Australia, with a recent study proving mosquitoes could also play a role in the spread.

More under this ad
More under this ad

Last year, WHO reported 2,100 Buruli ulcer cases in 11 countries. About 200-300 of them were detected in Australia.

Although there is no available prevention for Buruli ulcer, it can be cured with antibiotics.

You shouldn’t be too worried about contracting M. ulcerans bacteria if you don’t live in the affected areas or don't plan to visit them soon.

More under this ad
More under this ad

If you do - take all the necessary precautions to protect yourself from mosquitoes and don’t come in close contact with native possums.

Read more:

Brits complaining their homes are being invaded by these giant flying insects

Warning issued over plague of insects that are a 'hazard to human health'

Sources used:

- Euronews: 'Mosquitoes could be spreading a flesh-eating bacteria that affects humans'

More under this ad