Human Mycobacterium bovis Infection and Bovine Tuberculosis Outbreak in Michigan
Author Information
Author(s): Wilkins Melinda J., Meyerson Joshua, Bartlett Paul C., Spieldenner Susan L., Berry Dale E., Mosher Laura B., Kaneene John B., Robinson-Dunn Barbara, Stobierski Mary Grace, Boulton Matthew L.
Primary Institution: Michigan Department of Community Health
Hypothesis
Is recreational exposure to deer a risk for Mycobacterium bovis infection in humans?
Conclusion
The study confirms that recreational exposure to deer is a risk for Mycobacterium bovis infection in humans.
Supporting Evidence
- Two human cases of Mycobacterium bovis infection were linked to recreational exposure to deer.
- Genotyping confirmed that the strains from the patients matched those circulating in deer.
- Initial tuberculosis skin test results were negative, complicating diagnosis.
Takeaway
Some people got sick from a germ found in deer, and it shows that hunters need to be careful when handling deer.
Methodology
The study involved genotyping analysis of Mycobacterium bovis isolates from human and animal cases.
Limitations
The epidemiologic evidence for one case is not irrefutable.
Participant Demographics
Two human cases were reported, one 74 years old and the other 29 years old.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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