Neglected paths of transmission of milkborne brucellosis and tuberculosis in developing countries: novel control opportunities
- Author:
Arockiasamy Arun Prince MILTON
1
;
Samir DAS
;
Sandeep GHATAK
Author Information
- Publication Type:Perspective
- From:Epidemiology and Health 2020;42(1):e2020073-
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
- Abstract: Brucellosis and tuberculosis are lingering zoonotic infections that are endemic in many developing parts of the world, with considerable economic and health costs. Although guidelines for the control of these diseases exist, we highlight neglected transmission routes of these diseases. We show that informal, door-to-door marketing of unpasteurized milk provides an important route for disease transmission through kitchen cross-contamination. Furthermore, the practice of discarding the first strippings of milk at farms needs adjustment to avoid floor and environmental contamination. Herein, we propose handling guidelines and a design for a milk stripping collection vessel. We believe that taking action to block these hitherto unrecognized transmission routes will complement existing efforts and guidelines.
