MMI Narayana Hospital Spreads Awareness To Save Patient from Rare and Severe Melioidosis

Positive India:Raipur:
A 36-year-old man from Raipur has made a full recovery from a serious case of melioidosis, a rare but potentially deadly infection, thanks to timely treatment at MMI Narayana Hospital. The patient, recently diagnosed with diabetes, was admitted with high fever, coughing, and breathing difficulties. He had taken a bath in a waterfall a week before, which doctors later identified as a possible source of infection.
Upon arrival, the man had pneumonia in both lungs, along with signs of liver and kidney complications. His condition was critical, requiring non-invasive ventilation (NIV) to support his breathing. Doctors quickly started him on antibiotics, suspecting a seasonal infection.
One day after starting treatment, blood cultures revealed the presence of *Burkholderia pseudomallei*, the bacterium responsible for melioidosis. This infection, though rare, can be life-threatening if not diagnosed early. The patient was immediately given targeted antibiotics, a move that doctors say was crucial in preventing further complications, such as septic shock or organ failure.
After five days of intensive care by the team of Pulmonologist ( Dr. Dipesh Maskey/Dr. Varsha ) , Nephrologist: Dr. Sunil Dharmani , Physican( Dr. R. Praghania and Dr. Mukesh Sharma) and Critical care ( Dr. Pradeep Sharma and Dr. J.P.Yadav) , the patient’s condition began to improve. His oxygen needs decreased, and his liver and kidney function started returning to normal. By the tenth day, he was discharged from the hospital with medication to complete his recovery.

The lead doctor handling the case commented, “Early diagnosis and the right treatment played a key role in saving this patient’s life. Melioidosis is uncommon here, but with rising cases during the rainy season, timely medical attention is essential.”
Melioidosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria found in soil and water, especially during the monsoon. While it’s rare, people with diabetes, like the patient in this case, are at greater risk. Doctors at MMI Narayana Hospital is encouraging people to be cautious, particularly if they have underlying health conditions, as infections like melioidosis can become serious if not caught early.