Brucellosis

It is an infection caused by a bacterium of the genus Brucella.

The source of infection is usually ingestion of unpasteurised milk or cheese or contact with infected animals, which is why it is more common in people who work as livestock farmers, veterinarians or in laboratories.

Initially, symptoms can be flu-like, with fever, muscle aches, joint pains and fatigue. The fever is typically undulating, waxing and waning over time; it may remain so for weeks. It may also be accompanied by loss of appetite, insomnia, irritability and/or feelings of sadness. 

Diagnosis can be complicated by such general symptoms. It is sometimes labelled as a fever of unknown origin. It can be confirmed by growth of the bacteria in blood cultures and/or serological tests. 

Treatment is based on a combination of antibiotics. Analgesics for pain control, antipyretics for fever control and bed rest may be added.