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Brucellosis

 

Definition

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease (from animals) caused by bacteria belonging to the genus Brucella. Infection is caused by drinking or eating unpasteurized dairy products, or by coming into direct contact with the body fluids of an infected animal. It is not a common disease in Canada - with only 5 cases reported in BC in the last 10 years - but occurs often in the Mediterranean area, parts of Africa, Mexico and Central and South America.  

Symptoms

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Profuse sweating
  • Chills
  • Weakness
  • Depression
  • Weight loss
  • General body aches

Infection of the spleen, liver and other organs can also occur. Incubation period is from 5 to 60 days.

  

Causes

Brucellosis is caused by Brucella abortus (cattle), B. melitensis (sheep and goats), B. suis (pigs) and B. canis (dogs). Infection occurs when someone comes into contact with the body fluids of an infected animal (blood, placenta, urine, fetuses), by consumption of raw (unpasteurized) dairy products and in some instances, by airborne transmission of the pathogen in animal pens, laboratories and slaughter houses.

There is no substantial evidence to suggest person-to-person spread occurs.  

Complications

Left untreated, the bones, joints, genital and urinary tracts may be affected. Also, arthritis may occur as a side effect. Case fatality rate for untreated brucellosis is about two per cent.  

Tests and Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by identifying the microorganism in blood, tissues or discharges, or by identifying the antibodies in blood serum.  

Treatment and Drugs

Brucellosis is treated with antibiotics. Your doctor will know which drugs to prescribe.  

Prevention

 

Prevention is relatively simple:

  • Do not consume unpasteurized dairy products at home or abroad.
  • When assisting in the birth of livestock, wear protective equipment such as gloves.
  • Hunters should not handle carcasses without wearing gloves.
  • Veterinary staff should also wear protective equipment when working with domestic animals that may be infected.

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Last Updated: February 4, 2011