First glanders cases detected in Nepal underscore the need for surveillance and border controls.
Authors: P Koirala, M Maharjan, S Manandhar, Kr Pandey, T Deshayes, G Wang, Ma Valvano, K Laroucau
Journal: BMC veterinary research
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Glanders Detection in Nepal Glanders, caused by the bacterium *Burkholderia mallei*, represents a significant threat to equine health and poses zoonotic risk to handlers and veterinarians; until this investigation, the disease had never been documented in Nepal despite its prevalence in neighbouring regions. Researchers identified suspected cases through clinical examination across multiple Nepalese districts, subsequently confirming three equids (two horses and one mule) as positive via complementary fixation test, ELISA and Luminex® serology, with PCR analysis of swabs and pus samples definitively isolating *B. mallei* from all three animals. Genotyping revealed the Nepalese strains clustered closely with *B. mallei* variants circulating in India, suggesting geographic proximity as a likely source and indicating an active disease reservoir at the border. The authors emphasise that implementation of systematic surveillance protocols and stringent biosecurity measures controlling animal movement across international borders are now essential to prevent further disease establishment in Nepal's equine population. For equine practitioners in the region, heightened clinical suspicion of glanders in horses presenting with respiratory signs, nasal discharge or skin lesions—combined with appropriate diagnostic testing and strict infection control protocols—is critical both for individual animal welfare and regional disease containment.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Glanders is now present in Nepal—equine professionals and veterinarians in Nepal and bordering regions should maintain high clinical suspicion for respiratory or skin signs consistent with glanders
- •Consider serological testing (ELISA, CFT, or Luminex) for equids with chronic respiratory disease, nasal discharge, or unexplained skin lesions in endemic or newly affected regions
- •Border controls and animal movement restrictions are critical to prevent spread; work with regulatory authorities on surveillance programs and quarantine protocols for imports from India and other endemic areas
Key Findings
- •First confirmed glanders cases detected in Nepal: 2 horses and 1 mule tested positive by all serological and PCR methods
- •Two additional equids tested positive by ELISA and Luminex but negative by PCR and CFT, indicating possible exposure or false positives
- •Genotyping revealed B. mallei strains closely related to those circulating in India, suggesting regional transmission source
- •Confirmation of glanders presence in Nepal indicates need for surveillance and border control implementation