The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LAC DPH) is investigating a cluster of Brucella melitensis (brucellosis) infections among adults residing in South Los Angeles County.
Each confirmed case reported consuming unpasteurized cheese imported from Mexico, underscoring the serious health risks associated with raw or unpasteurized dairy products.
Brucellosis is rare in Los Angeles County, with fewer than 15 cases reported annually. Most local cases are associated with unpasteurized imported cheese, occupational exposure to animals abroad, or accidental laboratory exposures. While the current risk to the general public remains low, LAC DPH is issuing this advisory to alert healthcare providers and the public to the ongoing investigation…