Brucellosis: Symptoms & Signs

Medically Reviewed on 12/23/2022

Brucellosis is an infectious disease caused by Brucella bacteria. While the infection is found mainly in animals, humans can be infected with these bacteria.

Signs and symptoms of brucellosis usually begin 2-4 weeks after exposure and can include

Other associated signs and symptoms of brucellosis can include

The fevers may become recurrent over time.

Causes of brucellosis

The bacteria infect humans through breaks or cuts in the skin, through mucous membranes, by inhalation, or by eating contaminated meat or other animal-derived foods. Brucellosis spreads to humans through milk, meat, or cheese that is obtained from infected animals. Person-to-person spread is very rare.

Other brucellosis symptoms and signs

References
Jameson, J. Larry, et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 20th Ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Education, 2018.