Melioidosis outbreak: Andhra wakes up after 20 deaths, declares health emergency in Turakapalem

Amaravati: Waking up to suspected Melioidosis deaths, Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has declared a health emergency in Turakapalem village and rushed all infected people to hospitals.

For the last two months, 20 people have died due to the Melioidosis virus in Turakapalem village.

Officials suspected the prevalence of the Melioidosis virus, and the blood samples have been sent to labs. They informed the Chief Minister that test reports will come back in three days. Officials said that they are examining whether the virus was transmitted from cattle, as the majority of the village depends on livestock rearing. The officials said that Melioidosis virus spreads during the rainy season. Floods and farmers are breeding grounds for the virus.

Health camps begin:

Chief Minister said health camps should be held in the village on Saturday and Sunday. Medical tests should be conducted on people. A health profile of everyone in the village should be conducted.

Health officials were advised to take the assistance of AIIMS, Mangalagiri doctors, and, if necessary, international medical experts. He directed the officials to supply protected drinking water in the village.

What is Melioidosis virus?

Melioidosis is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei (B. pseudomallei), found in contaminated soil and water, especially in Southeast Asia and Northern Australia. It is a serious, potentially fatal disease transmitted through direct contact with contaminated soil or water via wounds, inhalation, or ingestion.

Symptoms of the virus can vary widely, from subclinical to severe pneumonia or septicemia, and may include cough, chest pain, fever, and skin lesions.

How does it spread?

Direct contact with contaminated soil or water is the primary way the bacteria enter the body.

The virus can enter through cuts, grazes, or other open wounds on the skin, breathing in contaminated soil or water dust, and drinking contaminated water.

People with diabetes, chronic lung disease, liver disease, or kidney disease are at higher risk for severe melioidosis.

Opposition blames the TDP govt :

Meanwhile, the opposition YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) blamed the coalition government’s negligence for the deaths. Senior YSRCP leaders Gopireddy Srinivasa Reddy and former minister Ambati Rambabu came down heavily on the government over the crisis in Turakapalem. They claimed that more than 40 villagers have lost their lives due to contaminated drinking water and official apathy.