The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is warning victims of Hurricane Francine that they may be at risk of contracting melioidosis after the storm has passed.
According to the CDC, melioidosis is a bacterial infection caused by a bacterium called Burkholderia pseudomallei (B. pseudomallei).
It occurs after people or animals come into contact with contaminated soil, air or water.
According to the CDC, the risk of infection is higher after hurricanes, heavy rains, and other severe weather.
People living in areas along the Gulf Coast affected by flooding and heavy rains from Hurricane Francine are at increased risk of infection.
Symptoms of melioidosis
Melioidosis has a variety of symptoms and usually develops within one to four weeks of exposure to the bacteria.
This disease can manifest itself in a variety of ways.
It may also present as skin ulcers or sores, or a lung infection.
According to the CDC, symptoms include fever, muscle aches, localized swelling, cough, chest pain, headache and loss of appetite.
The infection can affect different body systems and cause a systemic infection.
According to the CDC, signs of systemic melioidosis include fever, headache, difficulty breathing, muscle pain, confusion, seizures, and stomach or chest pain.
Having certain medical conditions increases your risk of getting the disease.
Who may be affected?
The CDC reports that while anyone can become infected, it is very rare for someone to spread the virus to others.
Many animals can get melioidosis, including dogs, cats, sheep, goats, cows, horses, pigs, and wild boars.
Reduce the risk of melioidosis infection
To reduce the risk of infection, the CDC recommends:
- If you have open wounds on your skin or have any chronic illnesses such as diabetes or kidney disease, avoid contact with soil and standing water.
- If you work in agriculture or have a hobby or job that increases the risk of infection, wear boots that will protect you from infection through your feet and lower legs.
- Healthcare workers Standard Precautions To prevent infection, specimens should be properly labeled to protect laboratory personnel when treating patients with melioidosis.
- Laboratory personnel must follow good laboratory practices, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and respiratory protection.
Treatment of illness
According to the CDC, melioidosis can be treated with antibiotics.
The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the infection.
