Brucellosis

What is brucellosis? (undulant fever, Bang's disease)

Brucellosis is a bacterial disease (Brucella abortus) that may affect various organs of the body.

Who gets brucellosis?

Everyone is susceptible to the bacteria and may get the disease if exposed. It is more likely to be found in people associated with livestock.

How is brucellosis spread?

The bacteria that causes this disease are found in unpasteurized milk from diseased cows and also from discharges from cattle or goats that abort their fetus. It is unlikely that this disease would be spread from person to person.

What are the symptoms of brucellosis?

Symptoms of brucellosis include intermittent or irregular fever of variable duration, headache, weakness, profuse sweating, chills, weight loss and generalized aching.

How soon do symptoms appear?

The time period is highly variable, but symptoms usually appear within five to 30 days.

Does past infection with brucellosis make a person immune?

It is unlikely that an individual will be reinfected.

What is the treatment for brucellosis?

Tetracycline or tetracycline plus streptomycin is the treatment of choice. Early diagnosis leading to prompt treatment is essential to prevent chronic infection.

What can be done to prevent the spread of brucellosis?

The use of pasteurized milk and prevention of contact with infected cattle, sheep or goats will reduce the risk of infection.