Background of Brucella in the UK

Brucellosis, caused by the Brucella canis bacteria, is an infection of increasing concern in the United Kingdom. While not naturally occurring in the UK, the disease is becoming more prevalent due to the importation of dogs from Europe. Brucellosis is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted from dogs to humans, and is recognized by DEFRA/APHA as a reportable disease and a public health issue.

MCR Vets Protocol for Handling Imported Dogs & Dogs Known to Have Brucella canis

Veterinary staff are at a higher risk of contracting Brucellosis than dog owners. To safeguard our team’s health, we request that all clients with dogs imported from Brucella endemic areas such as Eastern Europe schedule a blood test. This blood test should be done at least 3 months after the dog comes to the UK, this is because they can take up to three months to seroconvert (show up in the blood). The cost is £100.12, including VAT, covering two tests as recommended by APHA to enhance accuracy. If testing is declined, treatment will continue, but the dog will be managed as if it tested positive (refer to protocol below).

If a Positive Dog is Identified:

- Veterinary care will NOT be withheld from a Brucella positive dog.

- Neutering is strongly recommended if not already performed.

- Testing of all other household dogs is advised.

- Detailed discussions on personal and household protection to prevent infection spread will be conducted.

Handling Positive or Untested Dogs in the Clinic:

- We respect our team members' decisions on handling positive or untested dogs. This may affect the flexibility of appointment and surgery scheduling.

- Team members will wear appropriate PPE when handling a Brucella positive (or untested) dog.

Transmission of Brucella to People and Symptoms

Brucella Canis is passed to humans when they come into contact with infected blood, reproductive fluids or the products of abortion. It is generally transmitted over the mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes or even nose. Symptoms in people can be non specific and varied but include: fever, sometimes accompanied by loss of appetite, weight loss, sweating, headaches, fatigue, back and/or joint pain. If left untreated, the disease can lead to severe illness and complications such as endocarditis, osteomyelitis, arthritis, meningitis and septicaemia. It can take months or years before any symptoms develop. Treatment generally needs to be managed by an tropical infectious diseases specialist.

We have included a link to the BVA guidance on Brucella Canis and also the Gov.uk website