How Do You Spell BACILLUS MELITENSIS?

1. Bacillus melitensis is a species of gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria that belongs to the genus Bacillus. It is known for its pathogenicity and ability to cause a serious infectious disease called brucellosis. The bacterium is primarily found in animals, especially domestic livestock such as sheep, goats, and camels, although it can also infect humans.

   The characteristic feature of Bacillus melitensis is its ability to form endospores, which are highly resistant structures that can survive harsh environmental conditions. These endospores allow the bacterium to persist in the environment for extended periods, contributing to its ability to infect susceptible hosts.

   Bacillus melitensis enters its host through various routes, including consumption of contaminated animal products or inhalation of aerosolized bacteria. Once inside the host, the bacteria replicate within phagocytic cells, including macrophages. This intracellular replication allows Bacillus melitensis to evade the host's immune system and establish a chronic infection, which can lead to a range of symptoms, including fever, fatigue, joint pain, and other systemic manifestations.

   Brucellosis caused by Bacillus melitensis is a significant public health concern, particularly in regions where livestock farming is prevalent. The disease can be transmitted to humans through the consumption of unpasteurized dairy products, close contact with infected animals, or laboratory accidents. Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics, but prevention, such as improved hygiene practices, animal vaccination, and pasteurization of dairy products, remains crucial in controlling the spread of Bacillus melitensis.

2. The specific microorganism of Malta fever, discovered by Bruce.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for BACILLUS MELITENSIS

The word "Bacillus melitensis" has its etymology rooted in Latin and Greek.

- "Bacillus" comes from the Latin word "bacillum", which means "small staff" or "little rod". It refers to the rod shape of bacteria in the genus Bacillus.

- "Melitensis" is derived from the Greek word "melita", which means "Maltese". The name "melitensis" was given to this bacterium because it was first isolated and identified in Malta, an island country in the Mediterranean Sea.

Combining the Latin and Greek roots, Bacillus melitensis essentially refers to the rod-shaped bacterium first discovered in Malta.