The state of Kerala in India has recently implemented preventive measures following the identification of a number of brucellosis cases among dairy animals. Brucellosis, also known as ‘Malta fever’ or ‘Mediterranean fever’, is a zoonotic infection primarily found in cattle, swine, sheep, goats, and dogs. The disease, which poses a serious threat to public health and livestock productivity, has provoked significant concern. Particularly, this comes after the Indian Council of Agricultural Research’s -Indian Veterinary Research Institute (ICAR-IVRI) had developed a vaccine titled, “Brucella abortus S19Δ per vaccine” specifically for brucellosis prevention in dairy animals in September 2020.
Zoonotic Diseases and Brucellosis
Zoonotic diseases are infections that are transmitted from animals to humans, often through an intermediary species. These diseases can be bacterial, viral, or parasitic, with animals playing a crucial role in their continuity. Prominent examples of zoonotic diseases include HIV-AIDS, Ebola, Malaria, and the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
Brucellosis is one such bacterial zoonotic disease, caused by heterogenous Brucella species. It is prevalent in India and has led to substantial financial setbacks in the agricultural sector due to its severe implications, including infertility, abortion, weakened offspring, and reduced productivity in affected animals.
Transmission and Infection of Brucellosis
Brucellosis has proven to be a widespread issue, with over 3000 reported infections in China alone. Humans typically contract the disease through direct contact with contaminated animals, consumption of polluted animal products such as unpasteurized milk, or by inhaling airborne agents.
Despite its potency, human-to-human transmission of brucellosis, as stated by the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, remains “extremely rare.” However, once infected, individuals may face reoccurring symptoms or suffer from prolonged recovery.
Symptoms of Brucellosis
The symptoms of brucellosis largely mimic those of flu and include fever, sweats, malaise, anorexia (an irrational fear of weight gain leading to self-induced starvation), headaches, and muscle pain.
Treatment and Prevention
Brucellosis is commonly treated with antibiotics, such as rifampin and doxycycline. However, preventative measures are considered more effective in controlling its spread.
Key precautions include avoiding unpasteurized dairy products, using personal protective equipment like rubber gloves, gowns or aprons when dealing with animals or while working in labs. Thoroughly cooking meat and vaccination of domestic animals are also important preventive steps that can be taken against the disease.
This growing concern highlights the interrelationship between human health, animal health, and our shared environment, underscoring the importance of adopting a ‘One Health’ approach to address such zoonotic diseases. The recent surge in brucellosis cases serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges posed by zoonotic diseases and the need for ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate their impact.
