Mohammad Riaz, BAU:For the first time, a bacterium called Burkholderia cepacia complex has been detected in Black Bengal goats in Bangladesh by Prof Dr Md Siddiqur Rahman of the Department of Medicine at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU).

The bacterium is zoonotic, meaning it has the potential to be transmitted from animals to humans. It can also survive in soil, water, plants and the bodies of various animals.

Researchers said infection with the bacterium may weaken the human immune system and increase the risk of chronic lung infections. In goats, infection may cause abortion and infections in different organs of the body.

The bacterium has previously been detected in horses, dogs, cats, birds, sheep and other animals in different countries. However, its presence in goats has been identified for the first time in Bangladesh.

Prof Dr Md Siddiqur Rahman said the detection of the bacterium has opened up new avenues for future research on animal health and the One Health approach.

He said the bacterium is opportunistic in nature. Its infection may become apparent when animals lose immunity due to stress.

He further said some species of the bacterium can cause serious infections in humans. However, the current study found no evidence of transmission of the bacterium from goats to humans. Further advanced research is needed to confirm the matter.

Prof Siddiqur Rahman advised farmers to follow proper biosecurity measures to reduce the risk of infection and outbreaks on farms.

He said If the bacterium is detected in an animal, it should be isolated from other animals and treated separately. Farms should also be kept clean, animals should be provided with nutritious feed and vaccination should be ensured on time.