Outbreak of Brucella melitensis Type 2 Infection in London

An outbreak of seven cases of Brucella melitensis infection in London was traced to Italian pecorino cheese (cheese made from unpasteurized sheep's milk) which had been obtained from village markets in central Italy, brought back to England, and distributed to the affected persons. It is emphasized that pecorino cheese made from unpasteurized milk should not be eaten unless it is known to have been stored for at least 90 days, the period during which these cheeses have been shown to become free from viable brucella organisms.