Typhoon Gaemi linked to melioidosis surge in Taiwan

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Centers for Disease Control (CDC, 疾管署) reported on Tuesday (Aug. 13) that 19 new cases of melioidosis last week, including three fatalities, marking the largest outbreak in 19 years after Typhoon Gaemi.

CDC officials also revealed a total of 30 confirmed cases since the typhoon, with Kaohsiung City (高雄市) being hit hardest with 23 cases, followed by Tainan City (台南市) with four, Taichung City (台中市) with two, and Chiayi County (嘉義縣) with one. The three deceased, aged between 54 and 89, had chronic illnesses and died within 0 to 15 days of symptom onset.


A 60-year-old man from Kaohsiung, who had a chronic illness, injured his ankle on July 24 during the typhoon and later developed melioidosis symptoms. He succumbed to the disease on Aug. 12.


Melioidosis bacteria, a saprophyte in soil, can thrive in soil, ponds, and stagnant water. Infection occurs through skin contact with contaminated soil or water, inhalation, or ingestion of contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, nasal congestion, cough, and difficulty breathing, with over 90% of cases involving diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, or cancer.


The incubation period for melioidosis ranges from two days to several years, peaking at nine days. Symptoms vary from asymptomatic to severe pneumonia, with some cases developing skin ulcers.

Authorities urge residents to avoid contact with contaminated water and soil, especially those with chronic illnesses, to prevent further infections.