We are beginning to have quite a discussion about the CAP's
bioterrorism survey that was recently completed. One of the organisms
was an attenuated strain of Brucella abortus. Now anyone well trained
in microbiology should remember that B. abortus is one of the few
organisms that can infect not only through mucus membranes, but through
intact skin as well. It seems that the instructions for handling these
unknown cultures call for biosafety level 2 containment with BSL 3
protective gear. I guess some techs are complaining that they were
exposed to the bugs and now there is a controversy brewing that is
calling for stopping the survey unless you are a full BSL3 lab.

My question is that these organisms do occur in patients not related to
any bioterrorism threat and microbiologists and micro techs must be
properly trained to handle these organisms. I don't see any need to try
to stop this and it might be the only time a tech will see these bugs.

The Veterans Affairs central office for laboratory services is
recommending that we stop doing these unless we are a level 3 lab. Is
anyone else getting this survey? Are you being asked to drop it?