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BRUCELLOSIS What is brucellosis? Brucellosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Brucella. These bacteria are mainly passed among animals. Brucellosis is rare in the United States but it does occur. There are three categories of infections: 1) acute; 2) undulant; and 3) chronic. How can someone come into contact with brucellosis? Brucellosis is not commonly spread from person to person. Humans can come into contact with
Mothers who are breastfeeding may spread the infection to their infants. Sexual transmission also has been reported. Brucellosis as a weapon: The Brucella bacteria could be aerosolized and released into the air. Please note: Just because you come into contact with brucellosis does not mean you will get sick from it. What happens if someone gets sick from brucellosis?
How likely is someone to die from brucellosis? Not many people (less than 2 percent) die from this disease. Depending on when treatment is received and how serious the illness is, recovery may take a few weeks to several months. What is the treatment for brucellosis?
People who are sick from brucellosis do not need to be isolated. Is there a vaccine for brucellosis? No, there is no vaccine available for humans. What should be done if someone comes into contact with brucellosis? If you think that you or someone you know may have come into contact with brucellosis, contact the local county health department right away. (Visit http://www.idph.state.il.us/local/alpha.htm for a listing of all county health departments in Illinois or check your local phone book.) If you or someone you know is showing symptoms of brucellosis, call your health care provider or the Illinois Poison Center right away. The toll-free number for the poison center is 1-800-222-1222. Where can one get more information about brucellosis?
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