Government Issues Alert as Melioidosis Claims 92 Lives

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod.

The government has issued a nationwide health alert following a sharp rise in cases of melioidosis. The outbreak has already claimed 92 lives and infected more than 2,000 people, with farmers and casual labourers, particularly in the northeast, identified as the most vulnerable.

Speaking at a press briefing on 1 August, Deputy Government Spokesperson Anukool Pruksanusak warned that the rainy season presents a heightened risk not only for respiratory infections but also for serious bacterial illnesses linked to soil and water exposure.

Citing data from the Department of Disease Control (DDC), Mr Anukool said that 2,036 confirmed cases of melioidosis have been reported so far in 2025, with a fatality rate of 4.52 per cent. The majority of those infected were men with an average age of 58, mostly engaged in agricultural or general labour.

“Many of the patients had underlying conditions such as diabetes, kidney failure or chronic alcoholism, making them particularly susceptible to infection,” he added.

Melioidosis is caused by contact with soil or water contaminated with Burkholderia pseudomallei, a bacterium commonly found in muddy fields. The infection typically occurs when people work barefoot or with bare hands during or after rainfall. Key symptoms include high fever, difficulty breathing and chest discomfort.

Alongside the rise in melioidosis cases, public health officials are also concerned about an increase in leptospirosis or ‘rat urine fever’. So far this year, 1,895 cases have been reported, with 25 deaths, representing a 1.32 per cent mortality rate. The disease spreads via floodwater contaminated with urine from infected animals and is especially dangerous when individuals wade through water without wearing protective footwear or gloves.

“This year’s leptospirosis infection rate is higher than the five-year median,” Mr Anukool said. “With widespread flooding in many provinces, we urge the public to avoid contact with floodwater wherever possible. If unavoidable, people should wear rubber boots and gloves and practise frequent handwashing.”

The government has directed local authorities to remain on high alert and to implement rapid response measures. Mobile disease investigation teams are on standby and plans are underway for public awareness campaigns focused on disease prevention and personal hygiene during the rainy season.

“Protecting public health is a top priority,” Mr Anukool stressed. “We are working to ensure timely diagnosis, treatment, and public education to reduce fatalities from preventable diseases.”

Further information is available from the Department of Disease Control.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-08-03