Outbreak of bovine brucellosis in County Clare, Ireland, in 2005

This paper describes an investigation of an outbreak of bovine brucellosis in County Clare, Ireland, during 2005. It is likely that infection on the index farm was linked to a previous outbreak of brucellosis in County Clare. During March to May 2005, transmission of brucellosis within the herd was rapid; this was facilitated by a range of factors, including close contact between cattle kept in winter housing, and the mixing of animals, both during grazing and at housing, throughout the year. Containment of the disease, including only limited spread to one contiguous herd, was facilitated by the recent construction of a shed for winter housing.