Brucellosis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of brucellosis?

Brucellosis, also known as undulant fever or Malta fever, is a bacterial infection primarily transmitted from animals to humans, typically through consumption of unpasteurized dairy products or direct contact with infected animals. Symptoms can vary widely and may not appear for weeks to months after exposure. Common symptoms include:

1. Fever: Often intermittent, with spikes that can recur over weeks or months.
2. Fatigue: Profound tiredness and weakness.
3. Sweats: Especially night sweats.
4. Malaise: General feeling of discomfort or illness.
5. Joint and muscle pain: Especially in the back and joints.
6. Headache: Persistent or recurrent headaches are common.
7. Chills: Often accompany fever spikes.
8. Weight loss: Unintentional weight loss may occur.
9. Swollen lymph nodes: Particularly in the areas closest to the site of infection.
10. Gastrointestinal symptoms: Such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

These symptoms can persist for weeks to months and may recur or become chronic if left untreated. Brucellosis can also lead to complications affecting various organs, including the heart, liver, and central nervous system, if not promptly diagnosed and treated with appropriate antibiotics. If you suspect you’ve been exposed to brucellosis or are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are the causes of brucellosis?

Brucellosis is primarily caused by bacteria belonging to the genus Brucella. These bacteria are primarily transmitted to humans through:

1. Direct contact with infected animals: Brucellosis most commonly spreads from animals to humans through contact with infected animals or their body fluids, such as blood, urine, or placental tissue. The bacteria can enter the body through cuts or abrasions on the skin, or through mucous membranes, such as the eyes, nose, or mouth.
2. Consumption of contaminated dairy products: Drinking raw milk or eating dairy products made from unpasteurized milk from infected animals can also transmit the bacteria.
3. Inhalation of airborne agents: In rare cases, brucellosis can be transmitted through inhalation of airborne agents, such as when handling infected animal tissues or during laboratory work with the bacteria.
4. Occupational exposure: People who work closely with animals, such as veterinarians, farmers, and laboratory workers, are at higher risk of brucellosis due to their increased likelihood of coming into contact with infected animals or their tissues.
5. Consumption of undercooked meat: Although less common, brucellosis can also be transmitted through the consumption of undercooked meat from infected animals.

Preventing brucellosis involves avoiding contact with infected animals or their fluids, consuming only pasteurized dairy products, and thoroughly cooking meat before consumption. Additionally, individuals at higher risk of exposure, such as those working with animals, should take appropriate precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and practicing good hygiene.

What is the treatment for brucellosis?

The treatment for brucellosis typically involves a course of antibiotics to kill the Brucella bacteria. The choice of antibiotics and the length of treatment can vary based on the severity of the infection and other factors. Commonly used antibiotics for treating brucellosis include:

1. Doxycycline: Often used in combination with another antibiotic for a more effective treatment.
2. Rifampin: Another commonly used antibiotic for treating brucellosis.
3. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX): Sometimes used as an alternative treatment.

The duration of antibiotic treatment for brucellosis is usually at least six weeks, and sometimes longer, to ensure that the infection is completely eradicated. In some cases, particularly if the infection has caused complications or has become chronic, a combination of antibiotics may be used for a longer period.

It’s important to follow the prescribed treatment regimen closely and to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. This helps to prevent the recurrence of infection and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.