Koraput, Dec 9: Brucella bacteria found in some cows in Koraput can easily spread to humans. After JE kills in Malkangiri, Brucella takes a panic turn in Koraput.
Brucellosis, an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Brucella has affected the cows in Koraput district. Many have died while the ones infected and alive are unable to give milk as they have stopped their meals since past 12-15 days.
About 700 calves in the state town were vaccinated last year while this year the authorities have decided to vaccinate more than 2500 calves. Measures are being taken and the vaccination has already stated, said sources.
The bacteria can attack humans only if contacted with the animal or animal product infected with it. And it may spread from person to person. Even there is a risk of breastfeeding mothers with Brucellosis, passing it on to the babies. It can also be spread through sexual contact, cuts, scratches in skin, and even in food or drink contaminated with it.
Symptoms of the disease are fever acute headache and joint pain throughout life while the disease in animals cannot be cured. In a report nearly 26 of 91 samples of cows in the district have tested positive for the bacteria.
