Brucellosis is a bacterial infection caused by various strains of the Brucella bacteria.

This infection can affect animals and humans alike, and it is primarily transmitted from infected animals to humans through contact with contaminated tissue, fluids, or ingestion of contaminated food products. In this article, we will discuss the various causes of brucellosis, how it spreads, the risk factors involved, and how to prevent this infection from happening.

What is Brucella Bacteria and How it Spreads?

Brucella bacteria are a group of gram-negative coccobacilli that colonize in certain animals’ reproductive organs. These bacteria are highly infectious and contaminate the animal’s urine, milk, placental tissue, and uterine discharge.

The bacteria can also live in the soil for several months or years in a dormant state, making it challenging to eradicate.

Brucellosis (also known as Mediterranean fever, Malta fever, or Undulant fever) is often transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals, ingestion of contaminated animal products, or inhalation of airborne particles (aerosols) carrying the bacteria.

Transmission from Infected Animals

The most common method of transmitting brucellosis into humans is through direct contact or consumption of contaminated meat, milk, or other dairy products such as cheese.

Brucella bacteria can infect wild and domesticated animals, such as cattle, goats, pigs, dogs, and deer. An infected animal might not show symptoms, but it can continue to transmit the bacteria in its milk, urine, or blood.

People who work with animals are at a higher risk of getting brucellosis. These include veterinarians, farmers, slaughterhouse workers, and laboratory workers who handle live cultures of the bacteria.

Hunters who come in contact with infected wildlife can also get infected, especially if they consume contaminated meat.

Person-to-Person Transmission

Person-to-person transmission of brucellosis is rare but can occur through sexual contact, blood transfusion, or organ transplantation. These cases are a severe public health concern and require immediate medical attention.

Frequent hand washing and practicing safe sex practices with infected partners could help reduce the risk of human-to-human transmission.

Inhalation of Airborne Particles (Aerosols)

Brucella bacteria can also spread through the inhalation of contaminated aerosols, especially in veterinary laboratories, slaughterhouses, or other places where infected animals are frequently present.

Related Article How is brucellosis spread?

Infected people can develop pneumonia-like symptoms, including fever, chest pain, and coughing. Research shows that some cases of brucellosis might occur in areas where the bacteria are endemic in the soil.

Risk Factors for Brucellosis

Several risk factors increase the chances of getting infected with the brucellosis bacteria. These risk factors include:.

• Working with animals – especially in abattoirs or slaughterhouses.
• Consuming unpasteurized dairy products from infected animals
• Traveling to regions where brucellosis is endemic
• Living in close proximity to infected animals or people
• Having an immune system that is weakened, for example, due to disease or taking immunosuppressive medications.

Signs and Symptoms of Brucellosis

The symptoms of brucellosis infection are non-specific and can mimic several ailments, making it challenging to diagnose this infection.

The incubation period for brucellosis is usually a few days to several weeks, and the symptoms can last for several months or even years if left untreated. The most common symptoms of brucellosis include:.

• Fever
• Sweating
• Headache and body aches
• Loss of Appetite
• Fatigue and Weakness
• Joint and muscle pain
• Swollen lymph nodes

These symptoms can be severe or mild and can vary significantly from person to person.

Some people may experience no symptoms, while others may experience chronic infections that lead to long-term complications such as arthritis, heart disease, and neurological problems.

Preventing Brucellosis

The best way to prevent brucellosis is by practicing proper food safety measures and following good sanitation practices.

People should only consume pasteurized dairy products, cook meat thoroughly, avoid consuming meat from infected animals, and wash their hands frequently.

People who work with animals or in high-risk areas should use protective clothing, gloves, and eyewear when handling or conducting tests on animals.

Regular testing and vaccination of animals can also help prevent the spread of the bacteria in livestock populations.

Conclusion

Brucellosis is a serious bacterial infection that can be transmitted from animals to humans through several methods. The disease can cause severe and long-term complications if left untreated.

However, practicing good sanitation measures and taking precautions while handling animals can significantly reduce the risk of infection. If you experience any of the symptoms of brucellosis or suspect that you have been exposed to the bacteria, seek medical attention immediately.