Melioidosis Threat in Madhya Pradesh: Government Initiates Measures to Protect Farmers

19 September 2025, Bhopal: The Madhya Pradesh government has initiated urgent measures to address the spread of Melioidosis, a bacterial disease increasingly affecting paddy farmers in the state. The disease, caused by the soil- and water-borne bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, poses serious health risks with symptoms resembling tuberculosis.

According to a recent report by AIIMS Bhopal, cases of Melioidosis have been identified in more than 20 districts, particularly in regions with intensive paddy cultivation and abundant water sources.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav directed the principal secretaries of the health and agriculture departments to conduct immediate investigations and preventive actions. He emphasized that safeguarding the health and livelihood of farmers remains the state’s priority. The government has ordered awareness campaigns in affected areas, alongside identification and treatment facilities for potential patients.

Symptoms and Risk Factors

Melioidosis manifests with prolonged fever, recurrent fever episodes, persistent cough similar to tuberculosis, chest pain, and difficulty in daily activities. AIIMS Bhopal noted that farmers working in paddy fields are at higher risk due to direct contact with soil and water. Patients with diabetes and individuals with heavy alcohol consumption are also more vulnerable.

Government and AIIMS Response

AIIMS Bhopal has organized training sessions to raise awareness, enhance early detection, and ensure timely treatment. These sessions included participation from doctors and administrators across the state’s medical colleges and hospitals.

The state government has instructed the health and agriculture departments to accelerate screenings in high-risk areas, spread awareness among farmers, and ensure proper medical support for identified patients.

Precautionary Measures for Farmers

Health experts recommend that farmers adopt protective measures while working in fields, such as using gloves and masks. They also advise seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms like persistent fever or cough appear.

With the expansion of paddy cultivation and increased water availability in Madhya Pradesh, the risk of Melioidosis remains significant. Officials and medical experts stress that awareness, early detection, and preventive action are crucial to mitigating the spread of the disease.

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