Increase in Melioidosis cases in Pahang

KUANTAN: Cases of Melioidosis, a disease which paralyses the internal body system, are on the increase in Pahang with already 21 cases detected during the first two months of this year, from 16 cases throughout last year.

Pahang Health director Dr Zainal Ariffin Omar said out of the 21 cases reported this year, seven were detected in the Jerantut district, Bera (five), Maran (three), Temerloh (two) and one each in Kuantan, Lipis, Pekan and Rompin.

"The increase in the number of cases could be due to the extraordinary flood which hit the state in December last year until January this year," he said in a statement here today.

He said Melioidosis is caused by a type of bacteria known as Burkholderia Pseudomallei, often found in the soil.

The disease can spread through direct contact with the contaminated soil and water, inhalation of the soil dust and drinking of the contaminated water, he added.
"Those with diabetes and weak body immunity system have a high risk of getting the disease. The symptoms include fever, muscle pain, headache, infection of the lung and breathing difficulties," he added.

He advised the public to take the necessary precaution to avoid getting the disease, like to wear water-proof gloves and shoes for those working in estates and plantations.

He said those with symptoms of the disease should get immediate medical treatment. – Bernama