Brucella species infection in sea-mammals
Ross, H.M.; Foster, G.; Reid, R.J.; Jahans, K.L.; MacMillan, A.P.
Veterinary Record 134(14): 359
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 8017020 Document Number: 432045
The isolation of Brucella species from internal organs of 4 common seals (Phoca vitulina), 2 harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena), and one common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) that were stranded on the Scottish coast since 1991 is reported. Each of the isolates showed morphological and staining characteristics consistent with the bacterial genus Brucella and was confirmed using standard techniques of identification. Preliminary investigations suggest that they are of a type previously unrecognised. Further analyses of the isolates are in progress. This is the first report of the isolation of Brucella species from either seals or cetaceans and the pathological significance of this organism within marine mammal species remains to be elucidated. The authors advise those involved in rehabilitation or study of marine mammals that a significant zoonotic infection may be present among these animals.