Acute Communicable Disease Control

County of Los Angeles
Department of Public Health
Acute Communicable Disease Control
313 N. Figueroa Street, #212
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: (213) 240-7941
Fax: (213) 482-4856
Email:acdc2@ph.lacounty.gov

Brucellosis (bru·cel·lo·sis)

Brucellosis is caused by bacteria of the Brucella species. The most common species seen in Los Angeles County is Brucella melitensis. There are a few cases of brucellosis in LAC each year from other countries. This bacterium is carried by animals such as cows, goats, and sometimes dogs. It is transmitted through contact with body fluids or unpasteurized milk products. People who work with farm animals, such as veterinarians, or in slaughterhouses are at risk for infection. Many imported cases of brucellosis in LAC were acquired in Mexico where travelers have consumed unpasteurized milk products. Do not consume unpasteurized milk products at home or abroad.

• Los Angeles County: Annual Morbidity Report 2005 
• ACDC: A Manual of Departmental Rules, Regulations and Control Procedures (B-73) 
• LAC Reporting Form: Case Report of Brucellosis, Q-Fever, Tularemia 
  • LAC: ACDC's Epidemiologic Case History Forms Web Page
  • LAC: Reported Cases of Selected Diseases (2010-2015) 
  • LAC: Reported Cases of Selected Diseases (2004-2009) 
  • LAC: Reported Cases of Selected Diseases (1998-2003) 

• CDC: Brucellosis Fact Sheet