Brucella Flashcards
Is Brucella infection reportable?
Yes, in ALL species (in dogs specifically if from breeder, pet store, or shelter)
Brucella pathogenic feature
Endotoxin- LPS
Preferred sites of replication of Brucella
Uterus, placenta, mammary glands, testicles
Transmission of Brucella
Direct contact of infected tissues or secretions or with fomites
Or inhalation or ingestion
Brucellosis in Cattle
What causes abortion, weak calves, orchitis, and epididymus, fever of unknown origin and enlarged joints
How are cow herds infected with Brucellosis
Infected animals or wild animals- free ranging bison and elk in Yellowstone are a big threat
How do you test for Brucellosis
Serological card test or milk ring rest or culture/PCR
Is there an Elimination Program for Brucellosis
Yes, National Brucellosis Elimination Program
Treatment for Brucellosis?
None
Organism that causes Brucellosis in cows
Brucella abortus
How to control Brucellosis in Cattle?
Vaccinate calves, test replacement stock and quarantine, cull infected animals/ herds, test animals at slaughter
What organism causes Brucellosis in Swine
Brucella suis
Is there a vaccine for Brucellosis in swine
No
Risk of Brucellosis to swine herds?
Feral swine
What organism causes Brucellosis in Small Ruminants
Brucella melitensis- goats and sheep (not in US now) and Brucella ovis- sheep
What organism causes Brucellosis in dogs?
Brucella canis
Signs of Brucellosis in dogs?
Reproductive problems, late term abortions, enlarged scrotum, vaginal discharge, epididymitis, decrease sperm volume and motility and creates abnormal sperm, atrophy of testicles, Discospondylitis- infection of vertebrae
Is Brucellosis in dogs reportable?
Only if dog from breeder, pet store, shelter
Diagnosing Brucellosis in dogs?
Serological tests- slide agglutination and then confirm with ELISA
Treatment of Brucellosis in dogs
Neuter, long term antibiotic therapy, often repeat testing necessary
*inform owner of health risk
Is there a vaccine for B. Canis?
No
What is Brucellosis in Humans called and what are symptoms?
Undulant Fever- flu-like symptoms that come and go and Orchitis and epididymitis in males, can infect bones and joints
Abortion unlikely
How do Humans catch Brucellosis?
**Ingestion of unpasteurized milk, contact with infected secretions or inhalation of aerosols
What Organisms cause Brucellosis in Humans
B. abortis, B. suis, B. canis, B. melitensis
