Recent trends in human Brucella canis infection

Area of Science:

• Zoonotic diseases
• Infectious diseases
• Public health

Background:

• Limited data exists on brucellosis clinical progression in patients with comorbidities.
• Brucella canis (B. canis) is a zoonotic pathogen with increasing relevance in urban environments.
• Urbanization and slum expansion correlate with rising peridomestic dog populations, potentially increasing zoonotic disease transmission.

Observation:

• Three human cases of B. canis infection are presented, highlighting links to Gaucher's disease and Guillain Barré syndrome.
• One case involved complications from infective endocarditis.
• Cases originated from socio-economically deprived areas with limited diagnostic consideration and epidemiological data.

Findings:

• B. canis infection can occur in individuals with pre-existing conditions, presenting complex clinical scenarios.
• Infective endocarditis is a potential complication.
• Eleven laboratory employees exposed to B. canis strains were monitored.

Implications:

• Public health strategies must address the zoonotic potential of B. canis, particularly in urban settings with growing stray dog populations.
• Enhanced surveillance and diagnostic awareness are crucial for early detection and management of B. canis infections.
• Understanding B. canis transmission dynamics in changing urban landscapes is vital for preventative measures.