Taiwan's disease control department reports that 20 out of 101 local melioidosis cases had resulted in mortality this year, the highest number for the same time frame.
Among the confirmed local cases, 59 were people aged 65 and older, while 31 were between the ages of 50 and 64. A total of 77 cases were recorded in Kaohsiung in southern Taiwan, followed by 10 cases in Tainan, also in the south, the disease control department said earlier this week.
Notably, 69 cases emerged within one month after Typhoon Gaemi in July, and six cases were reported following Typhoon Krathon in September, the department added.
Melioidosis is an infectious disease caused by a bacterium called Burkholderia pseudomallei. The bacterium is found in soil, ponds and stagnant water and is primarily transmitted through skin wounds that come into contact with contaminated soil or water.
Typhoons can exacerbate the spread of the bacterium, as heavy rain and strong winds expose the bacteria residing in soil and muddy water, often resulting in inhalation infections. Consequently, the number of melioidosis cases tends to rise within a month after typhoons.
Related News:
Onions served at McDonald's are likely source of E. coli outbreak in U.S.: CDC
Super Typhoon Kong-rey weakens after making landfall in Taitung
Comment