Brucella is a dangerous, highly virulent organism and the aerosols are highly infectious. It is the MOST common cause of laboratory-associated bacterial infections. Laboratory acquired cases have occurred by aerosol generating procedures, direct skin contact with cultures, and by sniffing cultures. It should NOT be manipulated on an open bench.
Catalase: Brucella is catalase positive. Catalase testing MUST be performed with extreme caution in a biosafety cabinet (BSC) due to the creation of aerosols.
Oxidase: Positive
Beta-lactamase: Positive
Urease: Positive
XV factors: Not required for growth (satellite phenomenon with S. aureus is negative)
Serological testing: Often used because it is so difficult to grow. An acute and convalescent phase specimen should be collected 21 days apart.
