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The prevalence of human melioidosis in Northern Queensland
Abstract:
Sera from 9,047 individuals from Northern Queensland were examined for the presence of hemagglutinating antibodies to Pseudomonas pseudomallei, the causative agent of melioidosis, and 512 (5.7%) were found to have titers of 1:40 or greater. The distribution of positive reactors in various groups was uneven, and significantly higher prevalences of positive antibody titers were found in the sera from Aborigines (7.9-10.6%), Torres Strait Islanders (7.8%), Vietnamese refugees (29%) and from persons with certain medical conditions including chronic alcoholism (15%), chronic infections (14.8%), diabetes mellitus (8.6%) and liver disease (12.9%). There were significantly fewer positive reactors (1.4%) amongst the armed forces stationed in Northern Queensland. At present, the boundaries of the major endemic region of Australia extend north from Rockhampton along the coast to Darwin and inland, west from Rockhampton to Tennant Creek in central Australia. Townsville was found to have the highest prevalence (5.2%) of positive reactors of all urban populations of Northern Queensland. The extent of the disease is such that it can no longer be considered a rare infection in Northern Queensland.
Insights
Melioidosis is a significant public health concern in Northern Queensland, Australia. A study found 5.7% of residents had antibodies to Pseudomonas pseudomallei, indicating widespread exposure to this serious infection.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Epidemiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Melioidosis, caused by Pseudomonas pseudomallei, is an infectious disease endemic in tropical regions.
- Northern Queensland, Australia, is a known area where melioidosis occurs.
- Understanding the seroprevalence of melioidosis is crucial for public health planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the seroprevalence of antibodies to Pseudomonas pseudomallei in Northern Queensland.
- To identify demographic and clinical groups with higher rates of exposure.
Main Methods:
- Sera from 9,047 individuals in Northern Queensland were tested for hemagglutinating antibodies to Pseudomonas pseudomallei.
- Positive reactors were defined as those with antibody titers of 1:40 or greater.
- Prevalence rates were analyzed across different population groups and geographical areas.
Main Results:
- Overall, 5.7% of individuals tested had positive antibody titers.
- Higher seroprevalence was observed in Aborigines (7.9-10.6%), Torres Strait Islanders (7.8%), Vietnamese refugees (29%), and individuals with chronic alcoholism (15%), chronic infections (14.8%), diabetes mellitus (8.6%), and liver disease (12.9%).
- The armed forces had a significantly lower prevalence (1.4%). Townsville showed the highest urban prevalence (5.2%).
Conclusions:
- Melioidosis is not a rare infection in Northern Queensland, with significant seroprevalence found.
- Specific populations and individuals with certain medical conditions exhibit higher exposure rates.
- The endemic region extends from Rockhampton to Darwin and inland to Tennant Creek, highlighting the broad geographical distribution.
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