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Melioidosis (Whitmore's Disease)

Melioidosis

Melioidosis is caused by a germ that often stays in dirt and water. This disease is most often found in tropical areas. You may have a sore on your skin or a scrape. If the sore comes in contact with dirt or water that is contaminated, you may get this illness. You may also breathe in or swallow water with the germ in it. Very rarely is this illness spread from one person to another.

Name

Melioidosis

About this topic

Melioidosis is caused by a germ that often stays in dirt and water. This disease is most often found in tropical areas. You may have a sore on your skin or a scrape. If the sore comes in contact with dirt or water that is contaminated, you may get this illness. You may also breathe in or swallow water with the germ in it. Very rarely is this illness spread from one person to another.

What drugs may be needed?

Fight an infection,Lower fever,Help you breathe easier,Help with pain

What problems could happen?

Pus in the lungs,The infection can spread to the heart, brain, liver, kidneys, joints, blood, and eyes. It can cause serious damage to these organs. Without proper care, death can happen.

Body systems

Respiratory

What are other common names?

Burkholderia pseudomallei Infections,Vietnamese Time Bomb,Whitmore Disease,Whitmore's Disease

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider’s advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.

Copyright

Copyright © 2020 Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved.

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