How spatial analysis played a role in understanding Melioidosis

Burkholderia pseudomallei (B. pseudomallei) is a bacteria that causes Melioidosis. This infectious diseases causes numerous health problems and claims ~89,000 lives per year, making this disease and the bacteria subject of ecological and public health concerns.

This is a soil borne bacteria, yet, not a lot is known about the soil characteristics that dictate it’s presence, or just where exactly these microorganisms can be found. This is where spatial analysis comes into play.

Through the use of spatial analysis, randomized sampling, the scientists are able to compare various geographical, environmental and soil characteristics with the corresponding presence of B. pseudomallei to understand their relationship with these various factors.

Through this, they were able to find positive associations with the presence of B. pseudomallei and depletion of soil nutrients, and the amount of sand in the soil. There was also a negative association with the microbes presence, and the C:N ratio, and proportion of clay in the soil. Understanding these complex interactions is a crucial aspect in the education, prevention, and treatment of this harmful disease. I find it remarkable just how truly interdisciplinary science is, and how much we can accomplish using other’s work.

-JG