Brucellosis – Overview
Brucellosis is a bacterial infection that spreads from animals to humans, usually through unpasteurised dairy products, direct contact with infected animals, or inhaling airborne bacteria. This condition condition affects various organs in the body and can cause long-lasting fever, joint pain, fatigue, and even complications in the liver, heart, or nervous system if left untreated.
Brucella bacteria cause the disease and commonly infect livestock like cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, and camels. Humans can become infected by drinking contaminated milk, handling infected meat, or coming into contact with animal secretions through open wounds or mucous membranes. It is considered an occupational hazard for farmers, veterinarians, abattoir workers, and lab technicians.
Brucellosis occurs worldwide, especially in regions where animal vaccination programmes are lacking or where raw dairy consumption is common. These include parts of Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Latin America, and the Mediterranean.
Brucellosis
Because it mimics many other illnesses, this can be difficult to diagnose. Symptoms may be acute or develop gradually and include fever, night sweats, weakness, weight loss, and joint or muscle pain. Without proper treatment, the infection can become chronic and affect multiple body systems.
Although not spread from person to person, brucellosis is a serious public health concern due to its potential for chronic disability and economic impact on livestock production. With timely diagnosis and antibiotics, most people make a full recovery.
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