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Urban outbreak of goat cheese brucellosis
Abstract:
In 1983 an outbreak of human brucellosis caused by Brucella melitensis occurred among residents of a predominantly Hispanic neighborhood in Houston, TX. The source of the infections was traced to unpasteurized goats' milk cheese imported from Mexico. Nineteen of the 31 patients who contracted the disease were members of 5 families, which included 11 children ranging in age from 2 to 17 years. Infection was generally associated with protein complaints and a paucity of physical findings. Both immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G agglutinins were present in acute phase sera in the majority of patients, and low titers of immunoglobulin M antibodies remained in the sera of 43% who were retested 2 years later. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxozole was highly effective in the treatment of children with brucellosis and was associated with no relapses.
Insights
An outbreak of Brucella melitensis infection in Houston was linked to imported unpasteurized goat cheese. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole effectively treated children, preventing relapses.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Brucella species.
- Brucella melitensis is a significant cause of human brucellosis, often linked to consumption of unpasteurized dairy products.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate an outbreak of human brucellosis in Houston, TX.
- To identify the source of infection and evaluate treatment efficacy in affected individuals.
Main Methods:
- Epidemiological investigation to trace the source of infection.
- Clinical evaluation of patients, including serological testing for Brucella antibodies (IgM and IgG).
- Assessment of treatment outcomes with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole in pediatric cases.
Main Results:
- The outbreak was caused by Brucella melitensis, originating from unpasteurized goat's milk cheese imported from Mexico.
- Thirty-one residents were infected, with a significant number of cases within families, including children.
- Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole demonstrated high efficacy in treating pediatric brucellosis, with no observed relapses.
Conclusions:
- Consumption of contaminated imported dairy products is a risk factor for Brucella melitensis transmission.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment, such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, are crucial for managing pediatric brucellosis.
- Public health measures should focus on controlling the source of infection, particularly imported food products.