Purpose of review Brucella abortus is a Gram-negative, facultative intracellular bacterium of the genus Brucella and is the main causative agent of bovine brucellosis. An update on the recent research on B. abortus and diseases caused by B. abortus in animals and humans is provided. Recent findings In the last decade, intense efforts have focused on understanding the pathobiology, taxonomy, proteomics, and genomics of B. abortus. Proteomic analyses and complete genomic sequencing have provided information on the virulence of the brucellae; this information will help to identify novel antigens for better serodiagnosis and promising candidates for subunit vaccines. Summary The bacteria affect a broad variety of animal host species as well as humans, causing seriously debilitating disease. Short-course treatment regimens or licensed vaccines in humans do not exist. Diagnosis remains a challenge in endemic and non-endemic countries, and the effectiveness of current surveillance and control programs in animals is still under discussion. Brucellosis in bovines is a re-emerging disease in developing countries but is neglected by public (veterinary) health and family doctors.