Brucellosis in Omani children: a multicenter experience over 15 years

Lamees Al Sawafi1, Amal Al Tai2, Mohammed Al Reesi3

  • 1From the Department of Child Health, Oman Medical Specialty Board, Muscat, Oman.

Annals of Saudi Medicine
|December 10, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Brucellosis in Omani children is rising, with raw milk consumption and animal contact as key risk factors. Fever and arthritis are common symptoms, highlighting the need for enhanced public health strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Brucellosis is a prevalent zoonotic disease globally with potential severe human health implications.
  • While historically concentrated in southern Oman, brucellosis incidence is increasing in the northern regions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the epidemiology and clinical features of brucellosis among children in Oman's Northern Governorate.
  • To identify risk factors, common presentations, and treatment outcomes for pediatric brucellosis in the region.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective observational study was conducted in hospitals within the Northern Governorate of Oman.
  • Data were collected over 15 years for confirmed brucellosis cases in children up to 13 years old, including demographics, clinical findings, and laboratory results.

Main Results:

  • Fifty-seven pediatric brucellosis cases were identified, with a mean age of 6 years. The most common risk factors were raw milk consumption (75%) and animal contact (41%).
  • Fever (92%) and arthritis (44%) were the primary clinical manifestations. Bacteremia was noted in 42 cases, with complications including osteomyelitis and neurobrucellosis in some.
  • A notable increase in cases was observed from 2010, peaking in 2019. Cotrimoxazole and rifampin were the main treatments, with a 7% relapse rate.

Conclusions:

  • The study highlights the distribution and clinical characteristics of pediatric brucellosis in Northern Oman, noting a concerning gradual increase in cases.
  • Despite low numbers, the rising trend necessitates strengthened public health and preventive measures. Further comparative studies with southern Oman are recommended.
Abstract

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