Whitmore’s disease kills two in Vietnam’s central provinces

What is melioidosis?

Melioidosis is also called Whitmore’s disease. It’s a deadly condition that can affect both humans and animals. The cause of this infection is the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, which can be spread through contact with contaminated water and soil, Healthline reported.

Symptoms of melioidosis

The symptoms of melioidosis vary depending on the type of infection. Types of melioidosis include pulmonary (lung), bloodstream, local, and disseminated infections.

In general, it takes two to four weeks for symptoms to appear after exposure to the bacterium. However, symptoms may take hours or years to appear, and some people have the disease without having symptoms.

How to prevent melioidosis?

There are no vaccines for humans to prevent melioidosis. Hence, people need to wear waterproof boots and gloves when working in soil or water, avoid contact with soil and standing water if you have open wounds, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease as well as be vigilant about avoiding exposure by inhalation during severe weather events.