Humans typically acquire B. abortus through direct contact with infected animals or the consumption of .
Contagious abortion, often occurring in the last trimester of pregnancy, is the most common sign. abortus
The bacteria are often spread through contact with aborted fetuses, placentas, or vaginal discharges. In the United States, wildlife reservoirs like bison and elk in the Yellowstone area maintain the pathogen, occasionally transmitting it back to livestock. Zoonotic Transmission and Human Health Humans typically acquire B
Even with treatment, relapse occurs in 5–15% of cases due to the presence of "persister" cells that remain metabolically active within protective intracellular niches. Current Control and Prevention Strategies The bacteria are often spread through contact with
Efforts to manage B. abortus focus on surveillance, diagnostic testing, and vaccination.
In its primary host, cattle, B. abortus typically localizes in the reproductive tract. The hallmark clinical signs of infection include:
The bacterium's ability to persist inside host macrophages makes it difficult to treat, often requiring long-term combination antibiotic therapy.