Health officials in the Philippines have confirmed cases of Morve, also known as Glanders, in three municipalities within Siquijor: Larena, Siquijor, and San Juan. The Center for Health Development of the Negros Islands Region (Doh-Nir) reported on May 28th that two individuals on the island succumbed to the disease.

The victims, both male, were being treated at a hospital in Dumaguete City, Oriental Negros. They reportedly had pre-existing conditions including hypertension and diabetes,which may have complicated their treatment.

The Department of Agriculture in the Negros Island region (DA-NIR) has moved to reassure the public that the presence of Morve is not a widespread threat to livestock in the region’s other provinces.

According to Director Jose Albert Barrogo of DA-NIR, agricultural technicians collected blood samples from animals in at least three cities following the initial reports. “A team of technicians has taken blood samples from goats, horses and other animals in the Siqujor areas considered to be affected by the Morve from May 20 to 23 and immediately sent them for laboratory tests,” said barrogo.

Barrogo added that further actions, particularly concerning the movement of animals from affected areas, will depend on the outcome of these laboratory tests.

What is Morve (Glanders)?

The Morve (“Glanders” in English) is a fatal infectious disease caused by the bacteria Burkholderia mallei

Morve, also known as Glanders, is a rare but highly dangerous infectious disease. It primarily affects animals, especially horses, donkeys, and mules, but can also infect other species, including humans. the disease is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia mallei.

Transmission and Symptoms

B. Mallei is typically transmitted through direct contact with infected animals, frequently enough through skin abrasions, inhalation, or contact with mucous membranes. Symptoms can manifest within days to weeks after exposure and vary depending on the route of infection.

• Skin Infections: Ulcers and abscesses can form at the site of bacterial entry, accompanied by swollen lymph nodes (adenopathies). Systemic symptoms like fever, chills, headaches, fatigue, and muscle pain are common. Eye infections can occur if contaminated fingers touch the eyes.
• Pulmonary Infections: These infections cause fever,muscle pain,headache,chest pain,and cough. Complications can include pneumonia, pulmonary abscesses, and fluid accumulation around the lungs, leading to breathing difficulties.
• Blood Infections: bacteria can spread through the bloodstream from skin or pulmonary infections, leading to a severe and often fatal systemic infection.
• Long-Term Infections: If treatment is delayed or ineffective, Morve can become chronic, characterized by draining abscesses in muscles and internal organs.

Treatment and Prevention

Morve infections, especially in humans, require immediate medical attention. Antibiotics are the primary treatment, but the effectiveness can vary. Due to the rarity of human cases, there is limited data on optimal antibiotic regimens.

Prevention primarily involves avoiding contact with potentially infected animals. Veterinarians,animal handlers,and laboratory personnel should take strict precautions,including wearing protective clothing and practicing good hygiene.prompt diagnosis and quarantine of infected animals are crucial to prevent further spread.