Health advisory issued concerning symptoms related to "soil fever"

Health advisory issued concerning symptoms related to "soil fever"

An urgent public health warning has been issued following a rise in melioidosis cases, locally known as "soil fever," in Maha Sarakham, leading to three deaths. According to the provincial public health office, the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, commonly found in soil and water, is the cause of the outbreak, which is more prevalent in the northeast region.

The recent fatalities occurred in Wapi Pathum and Muang districts. As of May 17, Maha Sarakham had recorded 24 cases of the disease, with a death rate of 2.54 per 100,000 population. Last year, the province saw 103 cases, including nine deaths.

Dr Watthana Sriwattana, the deputy public health chief of Maha Sarakham, warns that the number of cases is expected to increase with the onset of the rainy season and the start of rice farming.

Older adults and farmers are particularly at risk, as the disease mainly affects these age groups and occupations. Symptoms range from mild fever and muscle aches to severe pneumonia and bloodstream infections, with some cases leading to death.

To mitigate the risk of melioidosis outbreaks, health officials recommend various protective measures. These include the use of personal protective equipment, such as waterproof boots and gloves, and adhering to hygiene practices like washing hands thoroughly after contact with soil or water.

At-risk individuals, particularly those with chronic diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, or immune deficiencies, should be given special attention. The Environmental Management Administration urges avoiding flooded areas and regular cleaning and disinfection of tools and equipment.

Public health authorities should issue alerts and provide education on the risks during the rainy season and after heavy weather events. Prompt diagnosis and treatment have been emphasized, with healthcare providers being urged to recognize the symptoms and be prepared to offer immediate medical assistance.

In the broader Public Health Region 9, which covers parts of lower northeastern Thailand, a total of 147 cases of melioidosis were reported from January 1 to May 19. The breakdown is as follows: Buri Ram (61 cases, one death); Surin (37 cases, no deaths); Chaiyaphum (16 cases, three deaths); and Nakhon Ratchasima (33 cases, one death). The department of Disease Control stresses that any area where melioidosis cases have been detected must be treated as a high-risk zone that requires continuous monitoring.

1. In light of the rise in melioidosis cases, also known as "soil fever," a call for workplace wellness initiatives focusing on medical conditions, including chronic diseases, cancers, respiratory conditions, digestive health, eye health, hearing, and mental health, among others, is necessary.
2. The fatalities in Maha Sarakham, primarily affecting older adults and farmers, have underscored the importance of health and wellness, fitness and exercise, nutrition, and skin care in preventing such outbreaks.
3. Some autoimmune disorders and certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and kidney disease, may increase the risk of contracting melioidosis. Therefore, special attention and therapies and treatments should be considered for these individuals.
4. Furthermore, neurological disorders and skin conditions could also potentially exacerbate the risk, making it crucial to ensure comprehensive health care for all.
5. Health officials must issue alerts and provide education on the risks of melioidosis during the rainy season and after heavy weather events, emphasizing the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment.
6. Medicare, as a crucial part of health care, should be made accessible to those at increased risk, ensuring they can receive immediate medical assistance when needed.
7. To reduce the spread of melioidosis in high-risk zones, public health authorities should implement continuous monitoring and encourage personal protective measures in agriculture, such as using personal protective equipment and adhering to hygiene practices.
8. In addition, the Environmental Management Administration should urge avoiding flooded areas and regularly cleaning and disinfecting tools and equipment.
9. As the disease is more prevalent in the northeast region, public awareness campaigns should be launched, focusing on the signs and symptoms of melioidosis, current treatment options, and preventive measures.
10. Moreover, parenting education should include information on how to protect children from exposure to the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei found in soil and water.
11. In the long term, research into cardiovascular health, considering the potential impact of melioidosis, could provide valuable insights for future intervention strategies.
12. With a growing older population, understanding the effects of aging on susceptibility to melioidosis will be essential for maintaining the overall public health and wellness of the community.

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