Global animal melioidosis prevalence: a systematic review and meta-analysis
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Issued Date
2026-12-01
Resource Type
ISSN
03680762
eISSN
20460481
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105038044254
Journal Title
Irish Veterinary Journal
Volume
79
Issue
1
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Irish Veterinary Journal Vol.79 No.1 (2026)
Suggested Citation
Thanasai J., Phongphithakchai A., Chatatikun M., Laklaeng S.N., Tangpong J., Wongyikul P., Phinyo P., Khemla S., Chittamma A., Klangbud W.K. Global animal melioidosis prevalence: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Irish Veterinary Journal Vol.79 No.1 (2026). doi:10.1186/s13620-026-00339-1 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/116769
Title
Global animal melioidosis prevalence: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Background: Burkholderia pseudomallei, the causative agent of melioidosis, infects both humans and a broad range of animal species. While human disease has been well characterized, animal data are dispersed across studies and lack a comprehensive global synthesis. This systematic review and meta-analysis estimated the pooled global prevalence of animal melioidosis and examined regional and diagnostic influences. Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, studies reporting B. pseudomallei detection in animals were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Embase up to April 2025. Pooled prevalence was calculated using a random-effects model. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses explored moderators of heterogeneity. Results: Twenty-eight studies from 11 countries, encompassing 98,885 animal samples, were included. The global pooled prevalence was 7.3% (95% CI: 0.039−0.117), with high heterogeneity (I² = 98.8%). Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, showed consistently higher prevalence across livestock, wildlife, and companion animals. Diagnostic methods and study period contributed to variability but were not statistically significant. Conclusions: Animal melioidosis is globally distributed, with Thailand serving as a key endemic region and research hub. Strengthening One Health surveillance, standardizing diagnostic tools, and expanding genomic monitoring are essential for improved detection and control of B. pseudomallei across animal populations.