What is brucellosis?
Brucellosis is a contagious disease in animals and is present in Kosovo. Due to the significant economic damages in the livestock sector and the risk of infecting people through unpasteurized dairy and meat products, farmers' awareness of this disease is very important.
The cause of this disease is a bacterium (Brucella), which has several types. They are found in the blood, milk, vaginal secretions, liver, lymph nodes, and in the membranes of infected animals.
How does brucellosis spread?
Among animals, brucellosis is usually transmitted through contact with the placenta, fetus, vaginal fluids, and exudates from infected animals. Animals are infectious after abortion or during birth. The bacterium can also be found in blood, urine, milk, and semen. Infection occurs through food and mucous membranes, injured skin, and intact skin. Humans become infected through food or through mucous membranes and skin injuries. Brucellosis can also spread through fresh milk and unpasteurized (uncooked) cheese. In slaughterhouses and laboratories, it can occur through the air or after close contact. Under conditions of high humidity, low temperatures, and no light, these organisms can remain dangerous to cause disease for several months.
Signs of the disease?
The symptoms of this disease manifest as a rise in temperature, loss of appetite, and loss of brood in the third of gestation, which can reach up to 70% of the pregnant sheep. If desired, inflammation and swelling of the testicles occur.
Treatment and prevention?
Cure for sick sheep is not considered at all, and infected and suspected animals must be slaughtered or slaughtered according to legal regulations. Protection includes continuous monitoring of brucellosis status, blood testing, and conducting tests, which is the responsibility of the state, specifically the veterinary service. Also, this disease can be prevented by vaccinating sheep with a vaccine that is available and is called (rev.1) B melitensis.
It is important that every farmer knows:
- Under no circumstances should they use unpasteurized or well-boiled sheep products for consumption.
- During every purchase of sheep, it must be checked in advance and it must be ensured that the animals are free from brucellosis.
- They should not be borrowed without prior control for brucellosis and other illnesses
- In case of potential health damage to a family member with symptoms of bone pain, fluctuating temperature, etc., medical help should be sought immediately
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