What Causes Brucellosis?

Brucellosis, also known as 'Mediterranean Fever,' is a contagious disease that develops from exposure to a bacteria called Brucella. There are several different types of this bacteria, and it is carried by animals such as cows, sheep, dogs, goats, pigs, and camels. New strains of the Brucella bacteria have recently been found in foxes and seals. All of these animals can transmit the brucella bacteria to humans, leading to brucellosis. Typically, the disease begins with a fever, joint and back pain, extreme tiredness, and loss of appetite. As brucellosis progresses, it may lead to arthritis, more frequent fevers, depression, chronic fatigue, and swelling of the liver, spleen, or heart.