Melioidosis on the Rise: The Impact of Climate Change and Extreme Weather

Abstract

Melioidosis is a bacterial infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, primarily a disease in tropical and subtropical regions. The bacteria are typically spread through contaminated soil, water, or air. The incidence of transmission tends to increase during extreme weather conditions. In recent times, there has been a noticeable rise in the frequency and severity of extreme weather events due to global warming. This includes heat waves, storms, cyclones, heavy rainfall, and floods, which have been on the rise. Climate change is expected to increase extreme weather events further and, coupled with human activities, expand the geographical spread of melioidosis. These events have had significant consequences on human health worldwide. Developing a new evidence-based understanding of how melioidosis intersects with natural disasters is crucial. Prioritizing health, well-being, and fairness in climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies is essential.