Isolation of Lactococcus garvieae NEP21 from raw cow (Bos indicus) milk in Nepal

Lactococcus garvieae is an emerging zoonotic pathogen impacting both humans and animals. Infection of this bacterium is known to cause mastitis in cattle, and endocarditis, osteomyelitis, liver abscess, and gastrointestinal problems are reported in immunocompromised and elderly people that regularly consume or handle raw meat, milk, dairy products, and seafood. This study aimed at investigating and detecting lactic acid bacteria in raw cow (Bos indicus) milk samples from a smallholder farm in Nepal. Based on the plate culture, biochemical tests, and molecular sequencing of 16 s ribosomal RNA coding nuclear DNA region followed by phenotypic and genotypic analyses, L. garvieae NEP21 was detected and identified for the first time in Nepal in raw cow milk samples. This finding suggests the prevalence of L. garvieae NEP21 in raw cow milk and recommends further research and surveillance for understanding the extent of its presence in Nepal and globally for informed management of its infection in cattle and humans.