Melioidosis cases reported in Palnadu district; health officials on alert

Hyderabad: The outbreak of Melioidosis has triggered concern in Palnadu district after two people were diagnosed with the infection. A resident of Veldurthi mandal was recently treated for the disease in Guntur, and another case has now been detected in Karampudi.

Melioidosis cases Palnadu district raise concern

Doctors identified the latest patient as Syed Vali, who runs a pan shop in Karampudi town. He had been suffering from fever and body pains for the past two months. As his condition worsened, he consulted a private hospital in Narasaraopet. Medical tests revealed damage to his kidneys and liver. Later, when he was shifted to a private hospital in Guntur, doctors diagnosed him with Melioidosis.

Health officials said unhygienic surroundings likely caused the infection. They urged residents to maintain proper sanitation and avoid exposure to contaminated soil or water.

Doctors explain the disease

According to doctors, Melioidosis is a severe and potentially fatal infectious disease caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei. It commonly occurs in soil and water in tropical regions such as Southeast Asia and northern Australia.

The infection may begin with mild fever but can progress to serious pneumonia or abscesses in internal organs. In severe cases, it can become life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly.

Health department issues precautions

Officials have directed local health teams to monitor the situation and conduct awareness drives in affected areas. They advised residents to wear protective gear while working in soil or stagnant water, boil drinking water, and seek medical help immediately for prolonged fever.

Doctors cautioned that the disease spreads through contact with contaminated soil, water, or food. Early detection and antibiotic treatment are crucial to prevent complications.