Pronunciation: /əˈbɔːtəs ˈfiːvə/ · Part of speech: noun · Field: infectious disease · Synonym: brucellosis
Definition. Abortus fever is another name for brucellosis, an infectious disease caused by bacteria of the genus Brucella. The name comes from the species Brucella abortus, one of the main bacteria responsible, which is well known for causing contagious abortion (loss of pregnancy) in cattle.
Other names. Brucellosis is known by several names, reflecting its history and the way it spreads: abortus fever, undulant fever (because the fever tends to rise and fall in a wave-like pattern), Malta fever and Mediterranean fever (after regions where it was historically common), and Bang’s disease (after the scientist who identified Brucella abortus).
Cause and transmission. The disease is a zoonosis — an infection that passes from animals to humans. People usually become infected through:
- Consuming unpasteurised dairy products such as raw milk or soft cheeses from infected animals.
- Direct contact with the tissues, blood, or birth fluids of infected animals, which puts farmers, veterinarians, slaughterhouse workers, and laboratory staff at particular risk.
- Inhaling contaminated airborne particles in certain settings.
It is only rarely spread directly from person to person.
Typical features. Brucellosis often causes non-specific, flu-like symptoms that can make it difficult to recognise. These commonly include a fluctuating (“undulant”) fever, sweats, fatigue, malaise, loss of appetite, headache, and muscle and joint pain. The illness can become chronic and may affect various organs, sometimes involving the joints, liver, spleen, heart, or nervous system if not treated.
Clinical relevance. Because its symptoms overlap with many other illnesses, brucellosis is diagnosed with the help of blood tests and cultures and a history of possible exposure (such as occupational contact with animals or consumption of unpasteurised products). It is generally treated with a prolonged course of antibiotics, often using more than one drug to reduce the chance of relapse. Public-health control focuses on animal vaccination, testing and management of livestock, and pasteurisation of milk.
Distinction from related terms. Brucellosis is the standard medical name for the human disease. Contagious abortion or Bang’s disease refers chiefly to the disease in cattle. Undulant fever emphasises the characteristic fever pattern. “Abortus fever” highlights the link to Brucella abortus; all refer to essentially the same infection.
Etymology. Abortus from Latin aboriri, “to miscarry” (reflecting the bacterium’s effect of causing abortion in animals); fever from Latin febris. The genus name Brucella honours David Bruce, who first identified the organism.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This explanation is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any clinical questions.