"Brucellosis is a highly contagious zoonosis (disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans) caused by ingestion of unsterilized milk or meat from the infected animals, or close contact with secretions." (Wiki) Brucellosis can be found in many different regions around the world, but the greatest number of cases are in both central and southwest Asia. The disease is spread when an animal gives birth or has it baby aborted due the bacteria in its system. The bacteria found within the after birth is what's contagious. "The bacteria can survive outside of the animal in the environment for several months, particularly in cool moist conditions." (oie.net)
The disease was first discovered during the 1850s. "Symptoms in humans include intermittent or irregular fever, headache, weakness, profuse sweating, chills, weight loss, and general aching." (oie.net) To prevent an outbreak, many countries test the milk as well as the meat before it is distributed to the general public. In the case of an outbreak the disease can be held at bay with the vaccination that's available to the infected.
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