As the clean-up from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred begins, there could be hazards hidden in the water.

Microbiologist at the University of the Sunshine Coast Associate Professor Erin Price told Gary Hargrave on 4BC Drive, "Melioidosis is not very common in South East Queensland, thankfully."

"This is an infectious disease that does lurk in the soil, and it loves when there's wet weather, especially flooding events and cyclones."

"So we have a perfect storm of conditions for this organism and for this disease right now in South East Queensland."

"We want people to just be aware that it is potentially going to be an issue, especially if you've come into contact with flood waters or mud, for instance, during cyclone clean up," Associate Professor Price continued.