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

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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

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Sources used:

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