Melioidosis: Fatal bacterial infection outbreak in Rajasthan; five found infected | Check symptoms

Rajasthan Melioidosis update: A dangerous bacterial infection, Melioidosis, which once wreaked havoc during World War I in Vietnam, has emerged in Rajasthan. The disease, caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, has led to five reported cases in AIIMS Jodhpur over the past six months, with one patient succumbing to the infection. Experts warn of its potential for severe health risks and its growing presence in arid regions like Rajasthan.

What Is Melioidosis?

Melioidosis, also known as “soil bacteria disease,” is a rare bacterial infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei. It primarily thrives in wet environments such as rice paddies and stagnant water. The bacteria can enter the human body through the respiratory system, skin wounds, or contaminated water and soil.

The disease manifests in several forms, ranging from pneumonia-like symptoms to severe infections in the brain, liver, and bones, leading to pus accumulation. Without timely treatment, the condition can be fatal, with mortality rates ranging between 16% and 50%.

AIIMS Jodhpur has reported five confirmed cases of Melioidosis, marking its first documented emergence in Rajasthan: Two patients are from Jodhpur, one from Jalore, and one from Pali. Details about the fifth patient are still being examined. A female patient succumbed to complications caused by the disease. One patient developed a brain infection with pus formation, while another experienced liver damage that progressed to bone infection. Two patients have recovered following timely intervention, while one remains hospitalised.

The occurrence of these cases in a dry region like Rajasthan, which lacks a history of Melioidosis, is alarming. This bacterium thrives in wet, humid conditions but has now been identified in Rajasthan’s arid zones. Experts from AIIMS Jodhpur suspect changes in the bacterial strain might be enabling its survival in atypical environments.

Experts say bacterium primarily affects individuals with pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes, kidney diseases, liver ailments, or compromised immunity due to HIV, thalassemia, or cancer. Agricultural activities, especially in rice paddies, are also linked to heightened risk.

One of the primary challenges with Melioidosis is its misdiagnosis. Physicians often confuse it with pneumonia due to similar symptoms, leading to delayed or inadequate treatment. AIIMS Jodhpur is the only facility in the region conducting advanced diagnostic tests, including PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), which magnifies the bacterial DNA for precise identification.

Melioidosis was first identified during World War I among soldiers in Vietnam. The bacterium thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, with significant prevalence in countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, India, Bangladesh, and Australia.

In India, the disease was initially reported in Manipal, Karnataka. Over the years, cases have surfaced in Kerala, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh. Now, Rajasthan joins the list, signaling its spread to non-traditional areas. Globally, an estimated 52,000 cases of Melioidosis occur annually, with over 31,000 deaths.

How the disease progresses

Melioidosis begins with pneumonia-like symptoms but can rapidly escalate:

Initial Phase: Fever, chest pain, and fatigue

Advanced Phase: The infection spreads through the bloodstream to vital organs such as the liver and brain

Severe Outcomes: Pus formation in bones and other organs, leading to severe pain and immobility.

Preventive measures and treatment

Given its association with soil and water, Melioidosis prevention requires strict hygiene practices:

Use protective gear like gloves and boots during agricultural activities.

Avoid direct contact with stagnant water or contaminated soil, especially if there are open wounds.

Ensure timely medical consultation for symptoms resembling pneumonia, especially in high-risk groups.

Treatment involves antibiotics and supportive care. Early detection significantly improves survival rates.