1983 Outbreak of Brucellosis Linked to Unpasteurized Goats Cheese, Texas

A confirmed outbreak of Brucella melitensis infections occurred among residents of a predominantly Hispanic neighborhood in Houston, Texas. The source of the infections was traced to unpasteurized goat 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. Brucella melitensis is common in goats in Mexico.

Overview

Outbreak began:1983
Affected country:US
States/territories:TX
Pathogen:Brucella
Vehicle(s):Cheese
Location(s):Private Home
Molecular test results:Not reported

Health impact

Total ill:31

Sources & documents

Report / reference links