Brucellosis is a disease caused by Brucella bacteria, which are mainly spread among animals. Brucella is categorized as a possible bioterrorist weapon.
Fever, sweating, headaches, back pain, and physical weakness. Severe infections of the brain and spinal cord or lining of the heart may occur. Brucella can cause long lasting (chronic) symptoms that include repeated fevers, joint pains, and fatigue. Symptoms usually begin 5–60 days after exposure.
Persons do not build an immunity following an infection from Brucellosis. A second infection is possible.
The risk is very low in Hawaii, however there is some risk as people with hunting and wild animal control are at highest risk for infection.
Do not drink unpasteurized milk or consume dairy products made from raw milk. Avoid contact with tissues, blood, urine, and aborted fetuses from infected animals. Persons with immune system have the highest risk for infection.
Brucellosis is a reportable disease Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 11 Chapter 156, Communicable Diseases, under the Urgent category which requires a report by telephone to the Disease Outbreak Control Division on Oahu or to the District Health Offices on the neighbor islands as soon as a provisional diagnosis has been established. The telephone report shall be followed by a written report submitted by mail or fax within three days to Disease Outbreak Control Division on Oahu or to the District Health Offices on the neighbor islands.
For additional diagnosis and treatment information see the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).