Warning for residents as cases of a fatal disease rise

Health experts continue to warn North and Far North Queenslanders of the dangers of a deadly disease.

Since the rain event in Townsville, there has been 21 recorded cases of Melioidosis, with no deaths.

However since January 1, the disease has claimed the lives of four people in Cairns and the Far North.

Symptoms of the soil-bourne disease include shortness of breath and coughing, with diabetics at high risk.

NT Health’s Director for the Centre of Disease Control Vicki Krause says the wet season could cause more trouble and the simplest way to stay safe is to protect your skin and face when outdoors.