HEALTH authorities are investigating possible cases of glanders disease on Siquijor Island.
Razel Nikka Hao, director of the Department of Health (DOH) Negros Island Region, said in a statement on Monday, May 19, 2025, that test results from suspected cases are still being validated.
Glanders is a rare zoonotic disease caused by bacteria, primarily affecting horses, donkeys and mules. It can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals.
According to the World Health Organization, zoonotic diseases are those naturally transmissible from animals to humans.
Hao said the DOH is working with the Department of Agriculture and the local government units in Siquijor to prevent the possible spread of the disease.
The Siquijor Provincial Health Office (SPHO), in a message to SunStar Cebu, said the investigation remains ongoing. It added that the office is waiting for results from the initial batch of samples sent for testing.
Hao noted that human-to-human transmission of glanders is “very rare.” She also said the disease is treatable with early detection.
“These cases are treatable with early detection and available treatment,” Hao said.
She urged the public to avoid contact with sick animals and to report any sightings to the nearest government veterinary office.
Siquijor Gov. Jake Villa, in a Facebook post, advised residents to exercise caution, especially those exposed to goats, carabaos and other domestic animals. He also called on the public to remain alert.
Symptoms in humans infected with glanders include fever, muscle pain, headache and chest tightness. / JJL