Isolation, identification and molecular confirmation of Brucella melitensis from ovine and caprine flocks in Karnataka, India

Sheep and goat brucellosis caused by Brucella melitensis, one of the most virulent Brucella species accounting for economic losses through abortion, stillbirths, reduction of milk yield and infertility. Disease has wide socioeconomic impact, in countries where, livestock sector is the major source of rural income. Early diagnosis is essential to minimise the spread of the disease besides public health importance. The present study reports the isolation, identification, biotyping and molecular confirmation of Brucella spp. in 18 different sheep and goat farms in Karnataka suspected to have brucellosis.