Staggered enforcement of infection control and prevention measures following four consecutive potential laboratory exposures to imported Brucella melitensis

Abstract

Summary: From 2015 until 2020, Brucella melitensis was isolated four times in our microbiology laboratory. All patients had travelled in endemic-areas. Immediately after the first occurrence, all laboratory staff were risk-stratified and preventive and protective measures were applied according to CDC guidelines. Nineteen workers were exposed and needed chemoprophylaxis and follow-up. At each subsequent occurrence, risk analysis was performed, and additional measures were implemented accordingly, leading to a progressive reduction of exposed staff members to none the fourth time. We describe here the additional measures that permitted this important exposure reduction.

Keywords

• Brucellosis
• Laboratory workers
• Laboratory exposure
• Risk assessment
• Biosafety
• Infection control and prevention practices