2024/12/15 by G. Kharroubi, A. Taoufik, I. Cherif +3
#Brucellosis #epidemic #surveillance system
paper · doi:10.71612/pist-aipt-189518
Brucellosis is a major worldwide zoonosis. It is a reportable condition in Tunisia where the disease remains endemic especially in rural areas. The aim of this study was to describe epidemiological, clinical and bacteriological profile of humain brucellosis cases notified in the district of Tunis. It was a retrospective descriptive study of cases reported, in the district of Tunis which includes four gouvernorates (Tunis, Mannouba, Ariana and Ben Arous), through the national surveillance system between the 1st January and 31th December 2017. Simultaneously, the reporting form was revised to include additional data fields. During the study period, 133 brucellosis confirmed cases were notified. The cumulative incidence was 4.78 per 100000 population. More than four fifths (82.7%) of cases were reported in spring and summer with a peack in the month of May (36 cases). Wright agglutination test and Rose Bengale test were positive in 100% and 91% of cases respectively. Brucella Melitensis was the only identified specie (9 cases). Almost all cases (99.2%) reported the habit of consuming raw dairy products. Only 5 cases had a suspect contact with animals among them 3 persons were livestock breeders. Our study showed an epidemic of brucellosis during 2017 compared to 2015 and 2016. It is important to strengthen the brucellosis surveillance system in the district of Tunis and to carry out further studies in order to identify the mode of transmission and the risk factors and to put in place appropriate preventive measures.