Symptoms of brucellosis include intermittent fever of variable duration, headache, weakness, swollen lymph nodes, profuse sweating, chills, weight loss and generalized aching. Brucellosis can also cause infection and inflammation of the bone, testicles, and the lining of the heart. The time period is highly variable, but symptoms usually appear within 5 to 30 days. It is unlikely that an individual will be reinfected. Physicians will prescribe a combination of antibiotics to cure the disease.
Early diagnosis leading to prompt treatment is essential to prevent chronic infection.
People can reduce their risk of infection by avoiding dairy products made from unpasteurized milk and by avoiding contact with infected cattle, hogs, sheep, goats or dogs. Animals can be tested by a veterinarian to determine if they are infected. Farmers and veterinarians who vaccinate livestock against brucellosis should handle the vaccine with caution to avoid accidental needle sticks. For more information contact your Local Health Department .