An ultrasound probe includes a piezoelectric material, a signal electrode provided on the piezoelectric material, and a ground electrode provided on the piezoelectric material. Ultrasound waves are emitted from the piezoelectric material by applying a voltage between the signal electrode and the ground electrode. A switching element switches a connection between the signal electrode and the ground electrode from a closed state to an open state, and vice versa, in accordance with a control signal for controlling whether or not to emit the ultrasound waves. The switching element changes from the closed state to the open state in accordance with the control signal for emitting the ultrasound waves, and changes from the open state to the closed state in accordance with the control signal for suspending emission of the ultrasound waves. The ultrasound probe can maintain the reliability of the piezoelectric material when the temperature is high or changes suddenly.
