A danger to our herds: brucellosis in cattle

Brucellosis is a notifiable disease in South Africa, and is a highly contagious zoonotic disease around the world. As no effective treatment is available, prevention is essential.  

- Janine Ryan

Brucellosis is a notifiable disease in South Africa. It is caused by Brucella bacteria, and transmitted via direct contact between uninfected and infected animals, or by contact with contaminated material in the environment, which may include the afterbirth of an infected animal. As Brucella organisms are found in higher concentration in the uterus of in-calf females, aborted foetuses, placental membranes and uterine discharges act as the main source of infection.

Humans can also contract the disease through the consumption of unpasteurised milk or cheese. The disease can also infect goats, camels, dogs and pigs. It is highly contagious, and while the mortality rate is low, the morbidity rate is high. Brucellosis can result in decreased milk production, weight loss, loss of young, infertility and lameness. Brucella abortus is the most significant of the Brucella bacteria in cattle.

Brucellosis is considered one of the most prevalent zoonotic diseases by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

Signs and symptoms of brucellosis in cattle include abortion; stillborn calves; weak calves; retention of foetal membranes, which can result in uterine infections; signs of infection in the membranes; and swollen testicles. Some animals may also suffer from painful swollen joints.

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