Abstract
Five Bartonella species are aetiological agents of emerging infectious disease in humans. The potential impact of this group on human health has fuelled an interest in the basic biology of these bacteria and how genetic adaptation contributes toward their emergence and pathogenicity. All members of the genus are notoriously fastidious and grow slowly in vitro. Vector-mediated transmission is another common theme in the genus. Bartonellae are typically transmitted among mammalian hosts by arthropods and a particular insect vector transmits each species. The reservoirs of bartonellae include mammals and arthropods. Bartonellosis has been reported in rodents, insectivores, dogs, cats, and humans. The pathogen is usually transmitted to mammals by arthropods, and once infected, the host may serve as a reservoir if the infection is chronic. Transmission may also be enhanced by persistent infection of the vector. In nature, bartonelloses are usually sporadic and epidemic, suggesting that infection of the vector or reservoir is cyclical rather than continuous.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
