Detection of Brucella spp. in soft cheese by semi-nested polymerase chain reaction

Brucellae are Gram-negative bacteria with a predilection for the reticuloendothelial system and the reproductive tract of cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. In these species brucellosis is of great economic significance because of the resulting abortion and infertility (Samartino et al. 1993; Corbel, 1997; Altecruse et al. 1998). Human brucellosis, caused by contamination from infected animals (percutaneous, conjunctival or nasal infection), is very common and remains a serious health hazard in Mediterranean Europe, western Asia, and parts of Africa and South America (Boschiroli et al. 2001). Raw milk, butter, ice-cream and unpasteurized cheese are also potential vehicles for the transmission of Brucella.