TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Centers for Disease Control announced Tuesday a new confirmed domestic case of melioidosis.
The case involves a man in his 50s from northern Taiwan with a history of diabetes and no recent overseas travel history. He began experiencing back and abdominal pain in early March and sought medical attention at a clinic, but his symptoms did not improve after taking medication, per a press release.
Melioidosis is a potentially fatal infectious disease caused by a bacterium found in soil and water in tropical climates, particularly Southeast Asia. Infections can increase during and after floods as the bacterium mixes with floodwaters and mud. It is often transmitted through contact with skin abrasions, ingestion, or inhalation, and requires antibiotic treatment.
In mid-March, the man developed a fever and general weakness that gradually worsened over time.
He later sought emergency medical treatment after developing difficulty breathing and was diagnosed with a rare emphysematous splenic infection, indicating a severe bacterial infection. On April 24, the hospital submitted bacterial samples for laboratory testing, and the agency confirmed the case of melioidosis on April 30.
According to CDC statistics, Taiwan has recorded 19 locally transmitted cases of melioidosis this year, including one death. The total exceeds the number of locally transmitted cases reported during the same period from 2022 to 2025, when annual case totals ranged from one to 13, per the press release.
Health authorities said the bacteria that cause melioidosis are commonly found in contaminated soil, ponds, and stagnant water. Infection can occur through direct contact with contaminated soil or water, ingestion of contaminated water, or inhalation. People with diabetes, lung disease, liver disease, kidney disease, cancer, or weakened immune systems face a higher risk of developing severe illness after infection.
The CDC advised people entering homes or surrounding areas where melioidosis cases have been identified to take protective measures, including wearing masks, waterproof gloves, and tall rain boots. Officials also recommended frequent hand washing and thoroughly boiling drinking water.
The agency urged members of the public experiencing unexplained fever or other unusual symptoms to seek medical attention promptly and inform doctors of any exposure to sewage, sludge, animals, or occupational risk factors to aid early diagnosis and treatment.
The CDC said it will continue monitoring infectious disease outbreaks and reminded medical professionals to promptly report suspected cases and submit samples for testing to help health authorities implement disease prevention measures.
