Signs and Symptoms of Brucellosis in humans
In some people, symptoms will develop suddenly. In others, symptoms may develop gradually and be persistent or recurrent, sometimes lasting for years. Some people who are infected have no symptoms at all.
Typical symptoms include:
- Fever
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Sweating
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Back and joint pain
Brucellosis is rarely fatal in humans. However, in some cases, infection can lead to life threatening complications such as endocarditis and meningitis, particularly if left untreated. There is a higher risk of complications if you are pregnant, immunocompromised, or particularly vulnerable to infection.
Testing, and Bridge Vets Policy
Testing for Brucella Canis is becoming more common especially in imported dogs even if they do not show clinical signs or ill health.
Testing will help identify dogs that may pose a risk of passing the infection on to humans and other dogs. This is important so the veterinary team can use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect themselves when handling dogs that have been shown to test positive.
Testing is in the form of a simple blood test, sent to an external laboratory. It can take three months after infection for a dog to test positive so testing must be undertaken once the dog has been in the UK for at least three months.
Due to this potential risk to veterinary staff, it is now required that all newly registered, imported dogs must be tested before they are seen for any other appointments. If emergency treatment is required within this three-month period, all veterinary staff will be in full PPE due to the risks of handling bodily fluids and secretions. No surgery will take place unless a negative result is returned. Any dogs that are already registered with the practice will be asked to follow the same guidelines for testing.
Treatment for Brucellosis has proved unsuccessful in dogs, if your dog has a positive result, a vet will be in touch to discuss the options available to you. Please note that Brucella is a notifiable disease in the UK due to the associated human health risk and a positive result will automatically be reported to the Public Health team.