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