Recent news from Dak Lak Province shows four people have been diagnosed with Whitmore’s disease and one of them died. This makes learning how to stay safe very important for farmers, fishers and anyone who works outdoors.

According to the CDC, Whitmore’s disease is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, which lives in soil and contaminated water and does not spread from person to person. The CDC also says infection happens when the bacterium enters the body through cuts or other breaks in the skin.

Health authorities advise several simple steps: wash your hands often with soap and clean water, eat food that is fully cooked, drink water that has been boiled and cooled, avoid touching soil or water that might be contaminated, and keep any open wounds covered with waterproof dressings. The CDC also warns that people with diabetes, liver or kidney disease, chronic lung disease or weak immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness, and there is currently no vaccine against the disease.

Remember, there is no vaccine for Whitmore’s disease, but you can lower your risk by good hygiene and protecting any cuts or wounds. Following the CDC’s advice can keep you safer when you work or play near soil and water.