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Brucellosis linked to Mexican cheese

M R Eckman

    JAMA
    |May 12, 1975
    PubMed

    Insights

    Three brucellosis cases were likely caused by eating contaminated fresh cheese. Doctors should ask about food history, alongside travel and occupation, to diagnose potential brucellosis. This bacterial infection may become more common due to increased travel.

    Area of Science:

    • Infectious Diseases
    • Microbiology
    • Public Health

    Background:

    • Brucellosis is a bacterial zoonotic disease.
    • Brucella melitensis is a significant cause of human brucellosis globally.
    • Contaminated food products, particularly unpasteurized dairy, are common sources of infection.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To report three cases of brucellosis likely linked to fresh cheese consumption.
    • To highlight the importance of dietary history in diagnosing brucellosis.
    • To discuss the potential increase in Brucella melitensis infections in the US.

    Main Methods:

    • Case series reporting clinical presentation and likely source of infection.
    • Review of patient histories focusing on food intake, travel, and occupation.
    • Epidemiological analysis of potential risk factors.

    Main Results:

    • Three patients presented with brucellosis (two acute, one chronic).
    • All cases were strongly suspected to be from ingesting fresh cheese contaminated with Brucella melitensis.
    • Increased international travel correlates with potential exposure to B. melitensis.

    Conclusions:

    • Fresh cheese is a potential vehicle for Brucella melitensis transmission.
    • Detailed food history is crucial for diagnosing suspected brucellosis.
    • Brucellosis, particularly from B. melitensis, may become more prevalent in the US.

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