Bacteria swindles its way into Louisiana soil and water

Deadly toxins reverberating through the water and soil in Louisiana have some officials perturbed for good reason. The most disturbing aspect is that how the bacteria escaped is unknown. While, the bacterium is believed to have derived from the Tulane National Primate Research Center, the magnitude of impact is yet to be seen. The center is just 35 miles from New Orleans.

The bacteria is called Burkholderia pseudomallei. It thrives in soil and water, but can be passed through human or animal contact. It appears some unfavorable things in life are done with the best intentions because researchers were using the microorganisms to create a vaccine against the same bacterial threat.

Although great caution is being taken with this leak, there were some animal test subjects that acquired the bacteria within their bodies and were kept in cages outdoors. Researchers began seeing signs of trouble back in November from the primates.

The bacteria is known to cause a viral infection that may result in fever, headaches, body pains, and nausea. The death rate for this illness is 50% when not treated properly. Officials plan on conducting massive soil and water sampling to ensure that Louisiana citizens are not at risk.