review of epidemiology, diagnosis and management of brucellosis for general physicians working in the Iranian health network

ABSTRACT

Although rare in industrialized countries, brucellosis continues to be a major public health problem in developing countries such as Iran. General physicians [GP] as well as health care workers [HCW] are concerned about brucellosis both as a public health problem as well as an occupational hazard. The aim of this article is to review the information about the epidemiology, immunopathogenesis, diagnosis and occupational risks associated with the prevention and treatment of brucellosis. Information obtained from previous investigations on brucellosis has yielded better knowledge about this illness. This information enables GPs to provide improved health services including preventive consultations, early diagnosis and treatment to attending people or patients at health care units.