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Buruli ulcer is a neglected tropical disease, as recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO). In the past decade, research has continued to expand our understanding of Buruli ulcer as the incidence has increased in Australia. This consensus statement aims to provide a pragmatic and evidence‐based update to guide clinicians in the diagnosis and management of Buruli ulcer in Australia.

Buruli ulcer is caused by the environmental bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans, which infects the skin and subcutaneous tissue, with a preference for cooler growth conditions. M. ulcerans produces a potent necrotising and immunosuppressive toxin, mycolactone, which is responsible for its unique pathology. Local research has revealed that transmission of M. ulcerans in Australia is a complex One Health interaction involving mosquitoes, native possums (mainly ringtail), the environment (soil characteristics, fauna, infrastructure) and humans (behaviour, health and vaccination status).

This MJA Consensus Statement shares more.

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Authors: Stephen Muhi, Victoria RV Cox, Matthew O'Brien, Jonathan T Priestley, Jodie Hill, Adrian Murrie, Anthony McDonald, Peter Callan, Grant A Jenkin, N Deborah Friedman, Kasha P Singh, Callum Maggs, Peter Kelley, Eugene Athan, Paul DR Johnson and Daniel P O'Brien

Article Type: Consensus Statement