Melioidosis is a bacterial infectious disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei.
It is acquired through inoculation, inhalation, or ingestion of soil- and water-dwelling bacteria.
Strongly influenced by rainfall, temperature, and humidity.
Globally, 1,65,000 cases annually, with South Asia (including India) contributing 44% of the burden (The Lancet, 2016).
Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment
B. pseudomallei can cause varied clinical symptoms, from minor infections to severe pneumonia and sepsis (50% fatality in septic cases).
Requires prolonged incubation and is often misidentified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Treatment involves initial intravenous therapy followed by a 12-20 week eradication phase, making accurate diagnosis critical.
Key Findings
Seasonality: Infections peak during and after monsoon season.
Climate Factors Influencing Disease Spread: Temperature, rainfall, cloud cover, and solar radiation.
High-risk districts in Odisha: Cuttack, Balasore, Khordha, and Jajpur (densely populated areas).
Additional risk factors: Urbanization, poor sanitation, and land use changes.
Climate Change Implications: Altered rainfall patterns and extreme weather may expand disease spread.
Broader Implications & Public Health Recommendations
Incorporating climate data into disease surveillance for better outbreak predictions.
Using Odisha’s model for other regions to integrate climate science with medical research.
Strengthening public health preparedness against climate-driven infectious diseases.
COMMENTS