Doctors Warn of Brucellosis Dangers, Potential for Disability

The Republican Center for Health Improvement and Mass Communication is sounding the alarm about brucellosis, a serious infectious disease that poses a significant threat to public health. This zoonotic illness, transmitted from animals to humans, can have devastating consequences, including permanent disability in its most severe forms.

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Brucellosis in severe forms can lead to human disability.

Brucellosis is caused by Brucella bacteria, several species of which are dangerous to humans. These resilient microorganisms can survive for extended periods in the environment, including in soil, animal hides, milk, and even frozen meat. Fortunately, simple measures like boiling milk can instantly kill the bacteria, while heating to 60 degrees Celsius eliminates them within 30 minutes.

The primary sources of infection are livestock such as cows, goats, sheep, and pigs. Humans most commonly contract the disease through the consumption of unpasteurized milk and dairy products like kumis and brynza, or through direct contact with the skins and hides of infected animals. Less common transmission routes include airborne dust and contaminated water or food.

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Boiling kills microorganisms instantly.

Symptoms of brucellosis can manifest after an incubation period of one to eight weeks and include debilitating fever, weakness, insomnia, and severe joint and muscle pain, particularly in the lower limbs. The disease can become chronic and poses a particular risk to pregnant women, potentially infecting the fetus or newborn.

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The source of brucellosis infection is animals.