CHP: Avoid touching soil or muddy water after rainstorms

The Centre for Health Protection urges members of the public to avoid touching soil or muddy water after rainstorms to prevent contracting melioidosis.

CHP says melioidosis is a disease caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, which is widespread in soil and muddy water. Such bacteria may be exposed on the ground after typhoons and could spread more easily with strong winds and storms.

Health authorities say humans can become infected through contact with contaminated soil and surface water as well as ingestion of contaminated water.

Some common symptoms include fever, headache and chest pain.