The Department of Health (DOH) and Department of Agriculture (DA) have reported and are now addressing reports of melioidosis in the Province of Siquijor. 

First thought to be glanders disease, the DOH later confirmed the cases to be melioidosis — a potentially lethal bacterial disease that can affect both humans and animals.

But what is melioidosis?

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), melioidosis or Whitmore’s disease is a zoonotic disease caused by bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei, or B. pseudomallei.

It is most common in tropical and subtropical areas such as the Philippines, Thailand, and Australia and may be contracted  through breathing in unclean air, drinking contaminated water, or being exposed to contaminated soil. After exposure, affected humans or animals may develop symptoms within one to four weeks, with symptoms varying from cases-to-cases.

The CDC said melioidosis may affect the entire body or one body system and may commonly show up as a lung infection. It may also look like an ulcer or skin sore in one area of the body.

However, among of the most common symptoms of melioidosis are:

Fever

Headache

Trouble breathing

Stomach or chest pain

Muscle pain

Confusion

Seizure

There is no vaccine yet against melioidosis.

Livestock raisers were advised to strictly implement sanitary protocols in their farms, and follow rules and ordinances in transporting animals. The DA reminded livestock workers, particularly those exposed to muddy or flooded environments to wear boots and gloves and other protective clothing to reduce risk of exposure to contaminated sources.

The DA also reiterated its prohibition on the slaughter, sale, and consumption of sick animals. It said only animals certified by accredited veterinarians and passing inspection protocols are allowed to be sold to market.

(via GMA News Online/GMA Integrated News)