The patient, Ksor H’P, lives in Mook Trang village, Ia Dom commune, and works in agriculture. She developed symptoms on April 16, including fever and body pain, before her condition rapidly worsened into respiratory failure and septic shock.

She was initially diagnosed with suspected dengue fever, and later transferred to Gia Lai Provincial General Hospital for further treatment on family request.

Epidemiological investigations showed that the patient had frequent exposure to soil and muddy water due to farming activities, as well as bathing and washing in river water, all known risk factors for melioidosis infection. 

The patient is currently on mechanical ventilation and is being closely monitored at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Gia Lai Provincial General Hospital.

Health authorities confirmed that no similar cases have been recorded in Mook Trang village or surrounding areas in Ia Dom commune. They instructed local health stations to continue monitoring the situation and track individuals with similar exposure risks.

Residents are advised to use protective gear during farm work, avoid contact with contaminated water, properly treat open wounds and seek medical attention promptly if experiencing symptoms such as high fever, chills, productive cough, pneumonia or abscesses.

Melioidosis, also known as Whitmore’s disease, is a serious bacterial infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei. The bacterium is commonly found in contaminated soil and water, particularly in tropical regions such as Vietnam.

Humans can become infected through direct contact with contaminated soil or water via skin wounds, inhalation of dust particles, or ingestion of contaminated food and water. The disease presents with a wide range of symptoms, including skin infections, pneumonia, and severe bloodstream infections, making early diagnosis difficult.

Melioidosis is often misdiagnosed due to its non-specific clinical signs and can progress rapidly, especially in individuals with underlying conditions such as diabetes, chronic liver disease, or weakened immune systems. In severe cases, it may lead to septic shock and death if not treated promptly with appropriate antibiotics.

Because of its severity and ability to develop silently, melioidosis is often referred to as a “silent killer.” Health experts advise heightened awareness among people frequently exposed to soil and water, particularly agricultural workers, and recommend early medical consultation when symptoms appear.

Vietnamese man in Dak Lak contracts Whitmore disease

VOV.VN - A man residing in the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak has been diagnosed with melioidosis, also known as Whitmore’s disease, according to the Dak Lak Center for Disease Control.