Professor
Chiranjay Mukhopadhyay
Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College & Director, Manipal Institute of Virology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
Title of the talk: Melioidosis: The potential one health model for combating this killer emerging tropical infectious disease
Abstract
Melioidosis is a potentially fatal infectious disease caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei. It primarily affects humans and animals in tropical regions, including South Asia, and is associated with high mortality rates if not treated promptly and appropriately. The bacteria responsible for melioidosis are commonly found in soil and water, and infection can occur through contact with contaminated water or soil. The One Health approach recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health and aims to address health challenges at the interface of these sectors. Melioidosis is a good example of a disease that can benefit from a One Health perspective, as it involves interactions between humans, animals, and the environment.
In South Asia, including India, melioidosis has been reported, and the prevalence may be underestimated due to challenges in diagnosis and awareness. The disease is endemic in certain regions, and factors such as monsoon rains and environmental conditions can influence its occurrence. A global perspective on melioidosis involves understanding its distribution, transmission dynamics, and the factors influencing its emergence and spread. Climate change, land-use changes, and globalization can impact the geographical range of the bacteria and the occurrence of melioidosis.
Effective surveillance, early detection, and a collaborative approach between human and animal health sectors are crucial for managing melioidosis. This involves not only medical professionals but also veterinarians, environmental scientists, and other stakeholders working together to prevent, detect, and respond to outbreaks.
In summary, addressing melioidosis requires a comprehensive and integrated One Health approach that considers the interactions between humans, animals, and the environment. This is particularly important in regions like South Asia, where the disease is endemic, and a global perspective is essential to understand and manage its broader implications.
Biography
Dr. Chiranjay Mukhopadhyay is a Clinical Microbiologist, Physician Scientist and Infectious Diseases Consultant who is researching tropical bacterial infections with a special interest in melioidosis and global infection including antimicrobial resistance and diagnostic stewardship. The presenting author is the prestigious Dr. TMA Pai Endowment Chair, and the coordinator of the Centre for Emerging and Tropical Diseases in his institution. He is the leader and pioneer in research for the neglected tropical disease Melioidosis in India and South Asia for last two decades.
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