Melioidosis
The infection: Melioidosis, caused by the bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei.
Symptoms and treatment: Symptoms vary, depending on how people are exposed to it. In people with a respiratory infection, for instance, it can cause fever, cough, and headache. Though treatable with antibiotics, its fatality rate can be as high as 50%.
Threat potential: The bacteria is typically found in the soil and waters of tropical environments. But some scientists have warned that a warming climate will allow the bacteria to establish a permanent reservoir in the United States. Just last year, CDC officials confirmed the first outbreak of the disease traced back to the continental U.S.
