What are the symptoms of brucellosis?
The symptoms of brucellosis can vary, but they often include:
- Fever that may come and go
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Night sweats
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Muscle and joint pain
- Headaches
What causes brucellosis?
Brucellosis is caused by bacteria called Brucella. People usually get it from:
- Drinking unpasteurised milk from infected animals
- Eating raw or undercooked meat from infected animals
- Handling infected animals or their products, such as urine or blood
How common are brucellosis infections?
Brucellosis is more common in certain parts of the world, especially in areas where livestock farming is widespread. In the UK, the number of cases is low but can still occur, particularly in people who travel to affected regions or work with animals.
Who is more likely to get brucellosis?
Some people are at a higher risk of getting brucellosis, including:
- Farmers or ranch workers who handle livestock
- People who work in laboratories with the bacteria
- Travellers to countries where the disease is common
How can I treat brucellosis?
Brucellosis can be treated with antibiotics, which are medicines that help fight the infection. It’s important to complete the full course of treatment to ensure the infection is completely gone.
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How to live with brucellosis?
Living with brucellosis can be challenging, especially if symptoms persist. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s advice and treatment plan. You may need to take time off work or school to recover fully.
What support is available for people with brucellosis?
People with brucellosis can access support from healthcare providers, who can offer advice on managing symptoms and recovery. Local health organisations may also provide resources and information.
How quickly can I recover from brucellosis?
Recovery time varies depending on how severe the infection is and how well treatment is working. Most people start to feel better within a few weeks but may need several months to fully recover.
What’s the outlook for brucellosis?
With proper treatment, most people recover from brucellosis. However, some individuals may experience ongoing symptoms, such as fatigue. It’s important to keep in touch with your healthcare provider during recovery.
Final thoughts
Brucellosis is an infection that can be treated with antibiotics. If you have concerns about brucellosis or any unusual symptoms, please speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
