Millions of Human Malaria Diagnoses May Actually Be Brucellosis, Texas A&M Researchers Find

Brucellosis, a neglected bacterial disease often mistaken for malaria, may affect 2.1–7 million more people worldwide each year than previously thought, according to new research from Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. Because brucellosis shares symptoms like fever and joint pain with malaria and typhoid, patients are frequently misdiagnosed and left untreated, allowing the disease to progress into chronic, life-altering conditions such as neurological or cardiovascular issues.

The study, led by Dr. Angela Arenas, used statistical models and data from countries like Kenya to show that 4–11% of malaria cases in some regions were actually brucellosis. The team collaborates with veterinarians, physicians, and policymakers in Africa and beyond to raise awareness, improve diagnostics, and train new researchers. They stress that controlling the disease in livestock — its primary source — is key to protecting humans. Left unaddressed, brucellosis also poses risks to global security, including bioweapon potential.