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Brucellosis
What is brucellosis?
Brucellosis is a bacterial disease that causes intermittent or irregular fever,
headache, weakness, profuse sweating, chills, weight loss and general aching. Infections
of organs including the liver and spleen may also occur.
Where does it come from?
Several bacterial species cause brucellosis in cattle, bison, elk, sheep, swine, dogs,
coyotes, deer and caribou. Recently, a new strain was found in seals and sea lions.
The state Department of Agriculture requires female cattle to be vaccinated against the
disease. Washington was declared free of swine brucellosis in 1975 and of bovine
brucellosis in 1988. Brucellosis is a possible agent of bioterrorism.
How is it spread?
The bacteria that cause brucellosis are found in unpasteurized milk and dairy products
from diseased cows, sheep and goats. It can also be transmitted to humans from animals
through infected tissue, urine, blood, vaginal discharges, aborted fetuses and especially
placentas. Person to person infection is unlikely.
What is the treatment?
A combination of antibiotics for a least six weeks is necessary.
How soon do symptoms appear?
Usually within five to 20 days of infection, but can take as long as two months.
How common is brucellosis?
Brucellosis is rare in humans in the US. Most cases are among recent immigrants, people
who have ingested food products imported from abroad, or in people who have traveled to
countries where brucellosis is common. Occasionally there are cases reported in
veterinarians, butchers, rendering plant workers, meat inspectors, and farmers. There were
twelve (12) cases reported in Washington between 1991 and 2000, most of which were
infections in recent
immigrants or acquired abroad.
How can we prevent the spread of brucellosis?
The main way to prevent human brucellosis is by eliminating the disease in domestic
animals. Cattle, dairy goats, and swine imported from other states are required to have a
health certificate indicating that they are brucellosis free. People working with animal
carcasses should protect open wounds or abrasions with bandages and use protective
clothing, gloves and goggles. Avoid picking up wildlife of any kind. Consume only
pasteurized milk or milk products. Wash your hands after handling any animal carcass or
raw meat product.
What should I do if I suspect someone in my family has brucellosis?
Contact your primary health care provider or call your
local health department.
Where can I get more information?
For more information call Communicable Disease Epidemiology, (206) 418-5500
or toll-free 877-539-4344, or Kathy
Connell, state Department of Agriculture (360) 902-1878.
Documents posted in .pdf version on the Department of Health Web site
will be made available in an alternative format on request to users who
are unable to download or view .pdf files on the Web.
To request an alternative
format, contact: Webmaster.
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