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Acute brucellosis in Johannesburg
South African Medical Journal = Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif Vir Geneeskunde
|September 20, 1980
Summary
This study found a low incidence of acute brucellosis in Johannesburg, with most cases linked to an abattoir by-products plant. Persistent positive serological tests after treatment highlight the need for careful interpretation.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Brucellosis is a significant zoonotic disease with varying incidence globally.
- Occupational exposure in abattoirs is a known risk factor for brucellosis transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on cases of acute brucellosis in Johannesburg.
- To assess the incidence of brucellosis in the region.
- To evaluate the interpretation of serological tests post-treatment and the efficacy of tetracycline therapy.
Main Methods:
- Case series reporting of seven patients with acute brucellosis.
- Epidemiological investigation linking infections to an abattoir by-products plant.
- Analysis of culture isolates and serological studies.
- Review of treatment outcomes with tetracycline.
Main Results:
- Seven cases of acute brucellosis were identified over nine months in Johannesburg.
- Five cases were likely acquired from exposure at a new abattoir by-products plant.
- Brucellosis incidence in Johannesburg appears low based on survey data.
- Serological tests remained positive for 18-24 months post-successful therapy, indicating caution in interpretation.
- Tetracycline therapy success is dose and duration-dependent.
Conclusions:
- Occupational exposure at abattoirs poses a risk for brucellosis.
- Interpreting persistently positive serological tests requires careful consideration of treatment history.
- Optimizing tetracycline dosage and treatment duration is crucial for successful brucellosis therapy.