M. bovis, or Mycobacterium bovis, is a type of bacteria that primarily affects cattle but can also infect other animals and humans. It is a member of the Mycobacterium genus, which includes other pathogens like M. tuberculosis. This bacterium is known for causing bovine tuberculosis, a contagious disease that can lead to severe health issues in infected animals. Transmission of M. bovis occurs mainly through inhalation of infected droplets or consumption of contaminated milk and meat. In humans, it can cause a form of tuberculosis, although this is less common than infections caused by M. tuberculosis. Control measures include testing and culling infected animals, as well as pasteurizing milk to eliminate the bacteria.