What should you know about bison brucellosis?

Brucellosis is caused by bacteria carried by some animals. People may be exposed while handling an infected bison, carcass, placenta, blood, or other body fluids, or by consuming unpasteurised animal products. The bacteria can enter through broken skin, the eyes, or the mouth. Symptoms may begin after a delay and can include fever, chills, tiredness, night sweats, muscle aches, joint pain, headache, or reduced appetite. These symptoms are not specific, so exposure history is essential.

Contact a clinician promptly after a meaningful exposure, even if you feel well. Explain what you handled, whether skin or eyes were exposed, whether protective equipment was used, and whether you consumed unpasteurised products. Wash exposed skin and seek advice after a splash to the eyes or mouth. Avoid unpasteurised dairy and do not share personal items if you are unwell. If brucellosis is suspected, clinicians may arrange blood testing and prescribe a combination of antibiotics for an appropriate course.

Seek prompt medical care for fever, sweats, marked fatigue, joint or muscle pain after bison exposure. Seek urgent help for confusion, severe weakness, breathing difficulty, fainting, or a severe headache. Tell the clinician about animal contact before testing, because brucellosis can resemble other infections and may affect several organs.

Does my exposure warrant blood testing? Which symptoms should I monitor? Do I need antibiotic treatment, and how should I take it? Could family or work contacts require advice?