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Pseudomonas pseudomallei in southern Thailand
Summary
Pseudomonas pseudomallei, the cause of melioidosis, is prevalent in Southern Thailand's soil and water. This bacterium was frequently found in rubber plantation soil and rice field sediments, increasing farmer risk.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Infectious disease epidemiology
- One Health
Background:
- Melioidosis is a serious infectious disease caused by *Pseudomonas pseudomallei*.
- The environmental distribution of *P. pseudomallei* is a key factor in disease transmission.
- Southern Thailand is an endemic region for melioidosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution of *Pseudomonas pseudomallei* in soil and water samples.
- To identify environmental sources of *P. pseudomallei* in Songkla province.
- To assess the risk of melioidosis transmission to agricultural workers.
Main Methods:
- Environmental sampling of soil and water from diverse sources in Songkla province.
- Isolation and identification of *Pseudomonas pseudomallei* using standard microbiological techniques.
- Quantification of bacterial prevalence in different environmental matrices.
Main Results:
- *Pseudomonas pseudomallei* was frequently isolated from environmental samples.
- High prevalence rates were observed in surface soil of rubber plantations (60.9%) and bottom sediments of rice fields (78.1%).
- These findings indicate specific high-risk environments for pathogen exposure.
Conclusions:
- Rubber plantations and rice fields are significant reservoirs for *Pseudomonas pseudomallei* in Songkla province.
- Farmers and plantation workers face an elevated risk of contracting melioidosis due to environmental exposure.
- Environmental surveillance and targeted interventions are crucial for melioidosis prevention in endemic areas.