Spatial distribution of Burkholderia mallei genome in Punjab, Pakistan

Burkholderia mallei, a zoonotic pathogen, causes glanders in equines. The equids acquire infection from contaminated soil, water and excretions. A study was conducted to determine the geo-spatial distribution of B. mallei genome in soil samples of 10% percent villages (n=456) from eight districts of Punjab province, Pakistan by real time Polymerase chain reaction. Soil samples (n=2,280) from spatially distributed positive localities for B. mallei genome were maped in relation to canals, rivers, roads and railway lines. Real time-PCR was used for detection of B. mallei genome from soil samples wth positive control (118 copies/reaction) of the DNA. Eleven (0.48%) out of 2, 280 soil samples were positive for B. mallei genome distributed in varied locations of Punjab. The samples collected from Sheikhupura district showed higher prevalence (2.37%) followed by Chakwal district (2.10%). None of the samples from Gujranwala, Sahiwal, DG Khan, Attock, Faisalabad and Sargodha districts were found positive for B. mallei genome. The genome of B. mallei was distributed in 25% study districts of Punjab, Pakistan. Findings of the study suggested that RT-PCR assay could be used for detection of B. mallei in clinical samples.