Brucellosis is a bacterial infection caused by any of the various species of the genus Brucella, which primarily affects animals but can also be transmitted to humans. It is considered a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans.
The bacteria responsible for brucellosis can infect a wide range of animals, particularly domestic livestock such as cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, and dogs. The infection is typically transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals, consumption of unpasteurized dairy products, or inhalation of contaminated aerosols.
Common symptoms of brucellosis in humans include fever, excessive sweating, fatigue, muscle aches, joint pain, and headache. Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, weight loss, and swollen lymph nodes. The severity and duration of symptoms can vary from person to person.
Brucellosis can be diagnosed through blood tests, which can detect the presence of antibodies or the bacteria in the bloodstream. Treatment usually involves a combination of antibiotics such as doxycycline and rifampin, administered for a period ranging from several weeks to several months.
Preventive measures for brucellosis include avoiding contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids, practicing good hygiene, consuming only pasteurized dairy products, and using personal protective equipment when working in environments where the bacteria may be present. Vaccines are available for animals to control the spread of brucellosis in livestock populations.
