Suspected new bacterial infection in dogs in Iceland

The Food and Veterinary Authority has received a report of a suspected Brucella canis bacterial infection in a dog. Such infection has not been suspected before in Iceland. Brucella canis, is a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans. It should be noted that infection in humans with Brucella canis is rare.

The main symptoms of the disease in dogs are late pregnancy loss, stillborn or weak puppies that often die soon, and inflammation of the epididymides in the dog's dams. Coupage is the main route of animal-to-animal transmission, but close contact between dogs can also cause infection.

Few cases of Brucella canis in humans have been described. Symptoms may include fever, chills, malaise, loss of appetite, bone or muscle aches and enlarged lymph nodes. Symptoms may appear after a few days or even months. They may also disappear and come back. Children under 5 years of age, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women are considered at a higher risk for serious infection. The primary risk of transmission to humans is from animal lymph nodes and tissue from birth control in infected bitches. Veterinarians and breeders are therefore most likely to be exposed to infection. The disease is not generally transmitted from person to person.

Actions have been taken, such as recommendations to the appropriate bodies on home quarantine and mating bans, where appropriate. Epidemiological information and sampling is also being collected. Action is aimed at preventing the spread of the disease while awaiting confirmation of diagnosis. It may take two weeks before the final results of the tests are known. Parties considered most likely to be exposed to infection have been contacted and given instructions.

It is essential that dog breeders take care to ensure effective biosecurity in the context of obstetrics for their dogs and always contact their veterinarian if they notice any abnormal signs related to pregnancy or delivery, such as late miscarriage or still/weakened puppies.

Chief Epidemiologist
Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST)