Brucellosis in Saudi Arabia: Review of Literature and Epidemiology

Abstract

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease, which is endemic in Saudi Arabia. It’s an infectious systematic disease that can affect any organ, with no specific symptom to this disease. The diagnosis of Brucellosis depends mainly on the investigations. Treatment of Brucellosis requires an extensive course of antibiotics used for at least 6 weeks to avoid relapse or recurrence. This disease is caused by Brucella spp. It’s considered to be a major problem in endemic countries, due to poor hygiene, and unprotected contact with animals. Brucellosis is a challenging disease diagnose since there are no special symptoms for this disease. The incidence of Brucellosis globally is up to 500,000 people infected annually therefore, it’s the most widespread zoonotic disease. There are some rare cases of Brucellosis in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Several laboratory tests are used to confirm the diagnosis, and the most common laboratory test used in Saudi Arabia is the SAT. Preventing brucellosis depends on contact isolation from infected beings, safety cautions in labs, Pasteurization of milk, and controlling of vectors.