What is Brucellosis?

Brucellosis is a bacterial infection that poses health risks. The recent death of an eight-year-old girl in Kerala marks the urgency of addressing this disease. Shasa Fathima succumbed after two months of treatment for brucellosis, which she contracted likely from unpasteurised milk. This incident puts stress on the need for increased awareness and preventive measures.

What Is Brucellosis?

Brucellosis is caused by various species of the Brucella bacteria. These bacteria primarily infect livestock such as cattle, goats, sheep, and swine. Humans typically contract the disease through direct contact with infected animals or by consuming unpasteurised dairy products. Airborne transmission is rare. The World Health Organisation (WHO) categorises it as public health issue, particularly in regions with high livestock populations.

Symptoms of Brucellosis

The symptoms of brucellosis can vary but often include fever, fatigue, weight loss, and general malaise. In many cases, symptoms may be mild and go undiagnosed. The incubation period ranges from one week to two months, with many cases presenting within two to four weeks after exposure.

At-Risk Populations

Individuals who work closely with animals are at a higher risk of contracting brucellosis. This includes farmers, butchers, veterinarians, and laboratory personnel. The disease can affect individuals of all ages, but those in direct contact with animal products are particularly vulnerable.

Brucellosis in Kerala

Kerala has reported sporadic cases of brucellosis in recent years. Notable incidents occurred in Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram in 2023. The state’s Animal Husbandry Department has initiated awareness campaigns for dairy farmers and conducted testing of milk samples. Despite these efforts, fatalities remain uncommon.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment for brucellosis typically involves antibiotics, including doxycycline and streptomycin. Doxycycline is administered twice daily for 45 days, while streptomycin is given daily for 15 days. Preventive measures focus on vaccination of livestock and pasteurisation of milk. Educational campaigns about the dangers of unpasteurised dairy products are vital in reducing transmission risks.

Importance of Awareness

Public education is crucial in preventing brucellosis. Awareness campaigns can inform communities about the risks associated with unpasteurised milk and the importance of proper hygiene when handling animals. Policies regulating the sale of unpasteurised dairy products could further mitigate the risk of infection.

Global Context

Brucellosis is a global health concern, particularly in regions with extensive livestock farming. The disease’s impact on public health systems can be , necessitating coordinated efforts for surveillance, prevention, and control.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Point out the major causes and effects of zoonotic diseases on public health.
2. What is the role of vaccination in controlling animal-borne diseases? Critically analyse its effectiveness.
3. Estimate the impact of unpasteurised dairy consumption on public health in developing countries.
4. What are the global strategies for managing brucellosis outbreaks? Discuss their significance and challenges.

Answer Hints:

1. Point out the major causes and effects of zoonotic diseases on public health.

1. Zoonotic diseases are caused by pathogens that jump from animals to humans, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
2. Common causes include direct contact with infected animals, consumption of contaminated food products, and environmental exposure.
3. Effects on public health include increased morbidity and mortality rates, economic burden due to healthcare costs, and loss of productivity.
4. They can lead to outbreaks and pandemics, straining public health systems and resources.
5. Education and preventive measures are crucial to mitigate risks associated with zoonotic diseases.

2. What is the role of vaccination in controlling animal-borne diseases? Critically analyse its effectiveness.

1. Vaccination reduces the prevalence of diseases in animal populations, thereby lowering transmission risks to humans.
2. Effective vaccines can lead to herd immunity, protecting both livestock and surrounding communities.
3. Challenges include vaccine accessibility, public acceptance, and the need for ongoing research to address emerging strains.
4. While vaccination is a key strategy, it should be complemented by other measures like hygiene practices and surveillance.
5. Overall, vaccination plays role in controlling outbreaks but requires a multi-faceted approach for maximum effectiveness.

3. Estimate the impact of unpasteurised dairy consumption on public health in developing countries.

1. Unpasteurised dairy products are source of zoonotic infections, including brucellosis and tuberculosis.
2. Consumption leads to increased disease incidence, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women.
3. Health systems in developing countries may struggle with the added burden of disease outbreaks linked to unpasteurised dairy.
4. Public health education campaigns are essential to raise awareness about the risks of unpasteurised products.
5. Implementing regulations on dairy processing can reduce health risks associated with unpasteurised consumption.

4. What are the global strategies for managing brucellosis outbreaks? Discuss their significance and challenges.

1. Global strategies include surveillance, vaccination of livestock, and public health education to reduce transmission risks.
2. Coordination between veterinary and public health sectors is crucial for effective outbreak management.
3. Challenges include limited resources in low-income countries, varying levels of awareness, and differing agricultural practices.
4. International collaboration and data sharing can enhance response efforts and improve understanding of disease dynamics.
5. Significance lies in reducing disease burden and preventing outbreaks, which can have severe economic and health impacts globally.