Even a minor error by hospital or clinic staff or doctors can create a major crisis. According to a study published in The Lancet, eight patients died in 2023 in Vaniyambadi, Tamil Nadu, from a severe bacterial brain infection called neuromelioidosis.

The patients lost their lives due to hospital errors during dental treatment. Although government agencies did not disclose any information on the matter, the outbreak was directly linked to inadequate sterilization procedures at a local dental clinic. Following the incident, CMC Vellore, ICMR-NIE, and the Tamil Nadu Public Health Department conducted a joint investigation. The committee’s report was published in The Lancet but not released by government departments. According to this report, the deaths of these eight individuals were caused by poor equipment and unsanitary conditions, in addition to bacterial infection.

How the Saline Bottle Became Infected

The investigation revealed that unspecified surgical instruments were used to open saline bottles, which were then loosely resealed and reused multiple times. This contaminated saline solution was used during dental procedures, directly infecting at least 10 patients and increasing the mortality rate by 80%. According to the report, a surgical instrument called a periosteal lift was used in the hospital to open the saline bottle. The same bottle was repeatedly used to treat patients.

Direct Impact on the Brain

According to researchers, the rapid and high mortality occurred because bacteria bypassed the bloodstream and entered the brain directly through blood vessels. Whole-genome sequencing also revealed the presence of a gene in the bacteria that aggressively attacks the brain. The research published in The Lancet was authored by Dr. Angel Miracline Thirugnanasambandam. Explaining the scientific reason, he stated, “Due to the contaminated saline solution, bacteria reached the brain through nerves. This caused the infection to spread rapidly. The bacteria were directly attacking the brain.”

What is Neuromelioidosis?

Neuromelioidosis is a severe infection that directly affects the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei. This bacterium is found in dirty water and soil and is commonly seen in warm and humid regions.