Brucellosis FAQ
What is Brucellosis?
Brucellosis is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted from animals to humans through consumption of contaminated meat or unpasteurized dairy products.
What are the symptoms of Brucellosis?
The symptoms of Brucellosis include fever, sweats, malaise, anorexia, headache, fatigue, muscle and joint pain.
How is Brucellosis treated?
Brucellosis can be treated with antibiotics such as Doxycycline, Rifampicin, or Co-trimoxazole.
Can Brucellosis be prevented?
Brucellosis can be prevented by avoiding consumption of contaminated meat or unpasteurized dairy products, and by taking precautions when working with animals.
Is Brucellosis contagious between humans?
Brucellosis is not typically transmitted from person to person, but it is possible in rare cases.
What are the risk factors for getting Brucellosis?
Risk factors for Brucellosis include working in a profession that involves contact with animals or animal products, living in rural areas, and traveling to regions with high rates of the disease.
Can Brucellosis affect pregnant women?
Pregnant women with Brucellosis are at risk of spontaneous abortion or preterm labor. They should seek medical care if they suspect they have been exposed to the bacteria.
How long does Brucellosis last?
Brucellosis can last for a few weeks to several months if left untreated. With proper antibiotic treatment, the symptoms usually improve within a few weeks.
Is Brucellosis common in the UK?
Brucellosis is rare in the UK, but it can occur in people who have traveled to areas with high rates of the disease.
Are there any complications of Brucellosis?
Some of the complications of Brucellosis are arthritis, inflammation of heart, inflammation of the testicles, or neurological symptoms.
Is there a vaccine for Brucellosis?
There is a vaccine for animals, but there is no human vaccine for Brucellosis available in the UK.
Can Brucellosis cause chronic illness?
In some cases, Brucellosis can become chronic and lead to long-term complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent chronic illness.
Does cooking meat or pasteurizing dairy products kill the Brucella bacteria?
Yes, cooking meat to appropriate temperatures and pasteurizing dairy products effectively kills the Brucella bacteria and reduces the risk of Brucellosis infection.
Can pets transmit Brucellosis to humans?
Yes, pets such as dogs and cats can transmit Brucellosis to humans through direct contact, so it's important to practice good hygiene and seek veterinary care if pets show symptoms.
What should I do if I think I have been exposed to Brucellosis?
If you suspect exposure to Brucellosis, seek medical attention promptly. Provide details of your potential exposure to aid in diagnosis and treatment.
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Information provided by Maryam Abdullahi-Mahdi. Reviewed by Mr. Matthew Liew