Health authorities in Morelos, Mexico have issued a public warning against consuming raw milk due to outbreaks of brucellosis and tuberculosis in livestock. In coordination with the Secretariat of Agricultural Development (Sedagro), preventive measures are being implemented to ensure consumer safety and control zoonotic risks.
The state government of Morelos, Mexico, in collaboration with the Secretariat of Agricultural Development (Sedagro), has issued a public alert warning residents to avoid consuming raw milk, also known locally as leche bronca. The warning comes amid confirmed outbreaks of bovine brucellosis and tuberculosis in various municipalities including Tlaltizapán, Miacatlán, Axochiapan, and Tlaquiltenango.
According to Morelos Health Secretary Mario Ocampo, while no human cases of brucellosis have been reported yet, the risk of bacterial transmission through unpasteurized dairy products is high. Authorities are urging residents to consume only pasteurized milk and are intensifying sanitary monitoring and public awareness efforts.
Brucellosis, caused by Brucella bacteria, is a zoonotic disease that can be transmitted to humans through raw milk and unpasteurized dairy products. It presents symptoms like fever, sweating, fatigue, and dizziness. Infected livestock can silently transmit the disease, making early prevention critical.
Preventive actions include:
- Serological testing of livestock
- Increased vaccination coverage
- Consumer education campaigns
- Enhanced hygiene practices in domestic milk handling
The government is reinforcing outreach to rural communities and local dairy producers, aiming to contain the outbreak before human infections occur. Health officials also stress the importance of routine veterinary inspections and proper refrigeration in the supply chain to minimize transmission risks.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are urging citizens to report any symptoms or suspected cases related to raw milk consumption.
