Melioidosis or glanders is caused by the bacteriaBurkholderia mallei. This disease most commonly affects horses but humans can also be affected. Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, chest pain, headaches and light sensitivity.
There are usually four types of infections that can occur:
- Localized infections
- Pulmonary infections
- Bloodstream infections
- Chronic infections
There has not been a naturally occurring case of glanders in the United States since the 1940s.
Transmission
Transmission occurs through contact with the tissue or bodily fluids of infected animals through cuts or abrasions in the skin or through mucosal surfaces.
Transmission may also occur through inhalation of infected aerosols or dust contaminated by an animal.
Incubation period ranges from 1 to 21 days. Isolation Precautions
Standard precautions are recommended in healthcare settings.
There has been no human-to-human transmission reported in the US.
Prevention for Patients
Special precautions should be taken for individuals who need to have contact with an infected animal.
Special precautions should be taken for individuals who need to have contact with an infected animal.
Specific groups such as veterinarians, horse caretakers, laboratorians, equine butchers, and abattoir workers can be at increased risk.
Public Health Actions
Public health will conduct an epidemiological investigation on a case or suspect case.
Public health will conduct an epidemiological investigation on a case or suspect case.
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