Taiwan sees record-high melioidosis cases: CDC

Taipei, July 22 (CNA) Taiwan has recorded a historic high of 27 melioidosis infections so far this year, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) said Tuesday, attributing the surge to frequent typhoons and the disease's long incubation period.

The latest six cases were reported in Kaohsiung between July 15 and 21 following Typhoon Danas, with two resulting in death, CDC officials said in their weekly briefing.

The six infected individuals, aged 52 to 95, included two with confirmed exposure to contaminated floodwater or mud, the agency added.

One of the deceased, a man in his 50s with a history of alcoholic hepatitis, developed fever and abdominal pain and later died from pneumonia and septic shock.

The second fatality was a bedridden man in his 90s with heart disease who rapidly succumbed to pneumonia and bloodstream infection, according to the CDC.

The CDC explained that melioidosis-causing bacteria, commonly found in soil and stagnant water, tend to spread more easily after heavy rains.

An unusually high number of 13 cases were already reported between January and April this year, likely linked to four typhoons that struck Taiwan in late 2024, it said.

Health officials urge the public -- particularly the elderly and those with chronic illnesses -- to take precautions during storm cleanup, including wearing boots and gloves, and avoiding contact with contaminated water or soil.

The CDC advises anyone experiencing fever, abdominal pain, or breathing difficulties after flood exposure to seek medical attention immediately.