Whitmore's Disease

This subject had been discussed on the forum. Recently, 4 cases (1 fatality) have been recorded in Dak Lak.

Expats and visitors to Vietnam should familiarise themselves with the symptoms and maintain vigilance.

"...This pathogen can  infect a  wide range  of animals, such as goats, pigs, cattle, horses, monkeys, and even fish (Limmathurotsakul  et al.,2012). Infection occurs through direct contact with contaminated soil or water, typically via skin abrasions, ingestion, or inhalation.

The  expansion  of  endemic  zones  has  been  linked  to  climate  change,  flooding,  and  agricultural  practices.  The  environmental persistence of  the  bacterium,  which can  survive  for  years  in  soil  and  water,  makes  eradication  nearly  impossible.  Clinically, the disease  is often  called  the  “great  mimicker”,  as it  can resemble  tuberculosis,  pneumonia,  or septicaemia  (Currie  et  al.,  2010).

Manifestations  range from  localised abscesses  to acute  septicaemia, with  the  lungs  being  the  most  commonly  affected  organ. Without timely diagnosis and targeted antibiotic therapy, fatality rates can be high."   (Link to full text of abstract, here)

(has me wondering about my recent bout with what was diagnosed as Bacterial Respiratory Infection.

I still haven't fully recovered, but thankfully I'm on the mend)