Brucellosis in Cattle: A Silent Threat to South African Farmers
Farmers Magazine | 12.02.2026 16:57
Brucellosis in cattle remains a persistent and silent threat to South African farmers, affecting both animal health and farm profitability. Caused by the bacteria Brucella abortus, the disease primarily leads to abortions, stillbirths, reduced milk production, and infertility in affected herds. While the clinical signs can sometimes be subtle, the economic impact is significant, particularly for smallholder and commercial farmers who rely on healthy livestock for income and food security. Uncontrolled brucellosis also poses a public health risk, as the disease can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals or consumption of unpasteurized milk and dairy products.
