Use of PCR for detection of Burkholderia mallei in Turkiye

Within the scope of the National Ruam Eradication Project carried out between 2000-2001, Glanders was eradicated in our country. Unfortunately, 81 horses were culled in Turkiye in December 2019, following the detection of Epidemic in horses in Buyukada. In 2019, Glanders were reported in horses in Usak and Bolu. No human cases have been reported. Turkiye is at risk for Glanders because of its geography. Therefore, reliable and fastly detection of Burkholderia mallei by PCR in a short time will prevent the distribution of unwanted infections that may occur in the future throughout the country. In this study; Burkholderia mallei strains isolated from horses were verified and optimized by PCR. The use of PCR for the detection of Burkholderia mallei was performed for the first time in our country. It has been concluded that the PCR as a diagnostic method with high reliability and sensitivity safely used together with diagnosis of Glanders.

Automated summary

The National Glanders Eradication Project successfully eradicated Glanders in our country between 2000-2001. However, in December 2019, 81 horses were culled in Turkiye due to the detection of an epidemic in horses in Buyukada. Glanders cases were also reported in horses in Usak and Bolu in 2019. The use of PCR for the reliable and fast detection of Burkholderia mallei in horses could prevent the future spread of infections in Turkiye.