brucellosis

Pronunciation: brū′sel-ō′sis

Definition: Infectious diseases caused by the bacteria Brucella melitensis biovars, characterized by fever, sweating, weakness, orchitis, aches, and pains, and transmitted to humans by direct contact with diseased animals or through ingestion of infected meat, milk, or cheese, and particularly hazardous to veterinarians, farmers, and slaughterhouse workers; although some crossing over by species may occur, Brucella melitensis, Brucella melitensis biovar abortus, Brucella melitensis biovar canis, and Brucella melitensis biovar suis characteristically affect goats, cattle, dogs, and swine, respectively.

Synonym(s): febris undulans, Malta fever, Mediterranean fever1, undulating fever

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