Pasteurellaceae

Pasteurellaceae comprise a large and diverse family of Gram-negative Proteobacteria with members ranging from important pathogens such as Haemophilus influenzae to commensals of the animal and human mucosa. Most members live as commensals on mucosal surfaces of birds and mammals, especially in the upper respiratory tract. The family includes several pathogens of vertebrates, most notably H. influenzae. This species causes several diseases in humans (though not flu, as was originally thought). Other Pasteurellaceae cause gingivitis and chancroid in humans and many others are important veterinary pathogens.