Multiple-locus variable number of tandem repeat analysis assay as a tool for the epidemiological study of Brucella canis in Korea

Abstract

Brucella canis is an etiological agent of canine brucellosis, a zoonotic disease that can be transmitted to humans. B. canis is associated with dogs, which are its natural host. In some cases, dogs can also be infected with other Brucella species such as B. abortus, B. melitensis, and B. suis; however, B. canis is the primary etiological agent responsible for canine brucellosis (1,2). The clinical symptoms of canine brucellosis are abortion in late pregnancy, epididymitis, and prostatitis, all of which can cause reproductive failure (2,3). Thus, canine brucellosis can result in economic losses with respect to kennels. Transmission among dogs occurs while mating or through direct contact with vaginal discharge after abortion, infected placenta, or fetus. Infections can also be transmitted through urine, since B. canis can be shed in the urine for several years (2-4). Therefore, brucellosis can be easily transmitted among dogs living in close proximity.Although B. canis infection in humans is rare, it can occur through exposure to contaminated canine tissues or fluids such as products exuded during conception and abortion or vaginal discharge. B. canis infection in humans can be difficult to diagnose because of the nonspecific disease symptoms such as undulant fever, headache, and weakness (5,6). Therefore, identification of the source of infection, treatment, and eradication of canine brucellosis may be an effective treatment strategy.