First glanders cases detected in Nepal underscore the need for surveillance and border controls

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Zoonotic Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Glanders is a highly contagious zoonotic disease caused by Burkholderia mallei, primarily affecting equids and potentially humans.
• Historically, no cases of glanders in equids had been reported in Nepal prior to this study.
• The emergence of glanders poses a significant threat to animal health and public safety in the region.

Observation:

• Following clinical suspicion, equids in various regions of Nepal were tested using Complement Fixation Test (CFT), ELISA, and Luminex® assays.
• Three equids (two horses and one mule) tested positive across all serological tests, with two additional equids showing positive results in ELISA and Luminex®.
• PCR analysis targeting Burkholderia mallei confirmed the bacterium's presence in samples from the three equids that were positive in all serological tests.

Findings:

• The study confirmed the presence of glanders in equids in Nepal, marking the first reported cases.
• Molecular analysis using a SNP-based method revealed that the identified Burkholderia mallei strains are closely related to those prevalent in India.
• Serological and molecular methods were effective in diagnosing glanders in the affected animal population.

Implications:

• The confirmation of glanders necessitates the immediate implementation of a comprehensive surveillance program in Nepal.
• Strict control over animal movement, particularly across international borders, is crucial to prevent the dissemination of the disease.
• Early detection and control strategies are vital to mitigate the impact of glanders on animal health and human populations.