Pasteurellosis

**Definition:** A disease caused by an infection with the gram-negative bacteria Pasteurella. This disease is characterised by local cellulitis and may lead to other clinical signs depending on the route of infection. Transmission is commonly by direct contact through the bite, scratch, or lick from an infected animal, inhalation of infected respiratory secretions, or ingestion of contaminated meat. Confirmation is by identification of Pasteurella from the affected individual.

**Long definition:** Pasteurella multocida is the most common organism involved in human infection. These organisms are normal inhabitants in the mouths of dogs, cats and other animals. Infection follows a bite or lick. Infections include cellulitis, pyogenic arthritis, osteomyelitis and meningitis.