Brucellosis in healthcare settings: research advances in nosocomial infection prevention and control.

Brucellosis, a globally significant zoonosis, poses substantial but often underappreciated risks within healthcare and allied professional environments. This narrative review synthesizes current research advances in the prevention and control of nosocomial and occupational brucellosis, addressing a critical gap in the existing literature that has predominantly focused on community-acquired transmission. We examine seven key dimensions: laboratory-acquired brucellosis and biosafety lapses; occupational exposure risks among healthcare workers, veterinarians, and abattoir personnel; epidemiology of hospital-associated outbreaks; standard precautions and infection control practices; risk assessment and mathematical modeling; knowledge, attitudes, and practices among at-risk personnel; and policy frameworks. Laboratory-acquired infections remain prevalent due to inadequate biosafety practices and misidentification of Brucella species. Effective prevention requires multi-layered engineering controls, administrative policies, personal protective equipment, and robust exposure management.