A deadly outbreak of melioidosis, a bacterial infection commonly known as soil fever, has killed 45 people and infected 570 others across four provinces in lower north-eastern Thailand so far this year, health officials said on Thursday.

Source: TOB News / TIMES International, 22 Oct 2026

Dr Sailaak Phimkho, director of the Office of Disease Prevention and Control 9 in Nakhon Ratchasima, said the figures cover the period from 1 January to 22 October 2026, according to Thai media reports cited by TOB News. People aged 65 and older accounted for the largest number of cases, followed by those aged 55 to 64 and 45 to 54.

Buri Ram recorded the highest number of infections, with 245 cases and 12 deaths. Surin followed with 139 cases and 11 deaths, while Nakhon Ratchasima registered 136 cases and 17 deaths — the highest death toll of the four — and Chaiyaphum reported 50 cases and five deaths, officials said.

How the infection spreads

Melioidosis is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, which lives naturally in soil and water. It enters the body through cuts and other breaks in the skin, by inhaling contaminated dust or droplets, or through contaminated food and water, and severe cases can be fatal. Thailand's government, in an earlier public warning reported by China Daily Asia with AP, said the same routes of infection and noted that if the bacteria enter the bloodstream they can cause severe infection and death.

Health officials warned that the risk rises during long periods of rain and flooding, when people come into more contact with wet soil, mud and contaminated water. Farmers and residents cleaning their homes after floodwaters recede face increased exposure, they said.

Boots, gloves — and care for high-risk groups

Officials advised the public to avoid direct contact with potentially contaminated soil and water where possible, and said anyone who must work in fields or clean flooded areas should wear protective equipment, including rubber boots, gloves and long trousers or suitable waterproof clothing.

The Thai government has said it is closely monitoring the melioidosis situation. Deputy government spokesperson Lalida Periswiwatana said at-risk groups include farmers and agricultural workers, people whose work involves contact with soil and water, and patients with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, kidney disease and thalassemia, as well as immunocompromised people, who face a higher risk of severe symptoms. Anyone with a high fever lasting more than two days, shortness of breath or infected wounds should seek medical attention immediately, she said.

Source: China Daily Asia (Thai government statement, via AP photo)