Brucellosis seroprevalence among workers in at-risk professions: northwestern Wyoming, 2005 to 2006.

Objective: Brucellosis is uncommon in the United States; however, its circulation among wildlife and domestic cattle has been ongoing in Wyoming. To assess the public health threat of brucellosis circulation among animals, a seroprevalence study was undertaken among workers in professions considered to be at the highest risk for infection.

Methods: A seroprevalence study was undertaken targeting individuals in at-risk professions in the affected area of the state.

Results: Seroprevalence among study participants was 14.4%. Veterinarians were the main professional group that demonstrated a statistically significant association with measurable anti-Brucella antibodies. Vaccinating animals with Brucella vaccines was associated with seropositivity.

Conclusion: The risk to the general public's health from the circulation of Brucella among wildlife and cattle can be attributed primarily to a limited subpopulation at high risk rather than a generally elevated risk.