The Montana Department of Livestock confirmed Wednesday the detection of brucellosis in a Beaverhead County cattle herd.

The department was notified of the infection on Friday and has since placed the affected herd under quarantine.

Brucellosis is a bacterial infection that spreads from animals to people, most commonly from consuming dairy products that are not pasteurized. Brucellosis bacteria can be inhaled in agricultural workplaces or where people have direct contact with infected animals.

Brucellosis, which can cause pregnant cattle to abort, is spread when an animal comes in contact with infected birthing material.

The infected bull was suspected of carrying brucellosis during required testing at a livestock market in late July. The animal was euthanized and taken for necropsy at

See Full Page