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Molecular epidemiology of glanders, Pakistan

Heidie Hornstra1, Talima Pearson, Shalamar Georgia

  • 1Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona 86011-4073, USA.

Emerging Infectious Diseases
|December 8, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Recent Burkholderia mallei outbreaks in Pakistan are genetically distinct and persistent. Equine movement likely spreads these genotypes throughout Punjab, highlighting a need for disease control.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary epidemiology
  • Molecular biology
  • Zoonotic disease research

Background:

  • Burkholderia mallei causes glanders, a contagious equine disease with zoonotic potential.
  • Glanders outbreaks have been reported in equines in Punjab, Pakistan.
  • Understanding the genetic diversity and persistence of B. mallei is crucial for disease control.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the genetic characteristics of Burkholderia mallei isolates from equine outbreaks in Punjab, Pakistan.
  • To determine the persistence and distribution of specific B. mallei genotypes in the region.
  • To identify potential drivers of B. mallei transmission in equines.

Main Methods:

  • Collection of epidemiologic data on equine cases in Punjab, Pakistan (1999-2007).
  • Molecular analysis of Burkholderia mallei isolates, including whole genome sequencing.
  • Phylogenetic analysis to compare recent isolates with available genomic data.

Main Results:

  • Recent B. mallei outbreaks in Punjab exhibit genetic profiles distinct from previously sequenced isolates.
  • Identified genotypes are persistent and widespread across Punjab.
  • Evidence suggests human-mediated movement of equines as a probable factor in genotype dissemination.

Conclusions:

  • The genetic distinctness and persistence of B. mallei genotypes in Punjab indicate ongoing transmission cycles.
  • Human-mediated equine movement is a significant factor in the spread of glanders.
  • Effective control strategies must address the movement of infected equines to mitigate disease spread.

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