We describe the first reported Buruli ulcer case likely acquired from a ringtail possum scratch, which represents a newly recognised mechanism for Buruli ulcer acquisition. We aim to alert health practitioners of this possibility in order to educate patients and facilitate early Buruli ulcer diagnosis, which reduces morbidity and allows less complex treatment. We also aim to influence public health messaging around the risk of Buruli ulcer acquisition from handling sick or injured possums.
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O'Brien et al. (2026) studied this question.
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