Conclusions
This study showed a wide diversity of B. melitensis bv3 genotypes among different ruminant species in Egypt and the risk of uncontrolled local and international animal movement. It also indicates that this is a potentially major cause of failure for national control measures for brucellosis. Our novel findings on the biology and epidemiology ofBrucella spp. is important for reviewing the current strategies for the control of brucellosis in Egypt and other countries with similar production systems. It will also support the selection of the proper vaccinal strain originating from the predominant genotype.