Epidemiological investigation of the first human brucellosis case in Spain due to Brucella suis biovar 1 strain 1330.

INTRODUCTION

No cases of human brucellosis caused by Brucella suis has been reported in Spain.

METHODS

This study involved interviews with the case and his co-workers, inspection of their workplace, checking infection control measures, and typing the Brucella strain isolated in the blood culture.

RESULTS

Brucella suis biovar 1 strain 1330 was isolated from a patient who worked in a waste treatment plant. Food borne transmission, contact with animals, and risk jobs were ruled out. An accidental inoculation with a contaminated needle from a research laboratory waste container was identified as the most probable mode of transmission.

CONCLUSION

There should be controls to ensure that waste containers are sealed.