Hemorrhagic septicemia: A major threat to livestock health

Abstract

Hemorrhagic septicemia (HS) is an acute septicemic disease that mostly affects cattle and buffalo. This illness is brought on by a particular serotype of the Gram-negative coccobacillus Pasteurella multocida. The frequency and distribution of HS epidemics involving various animal species vary according on the agroclimatic zone. The virulence factors of P. multocida include a number of defense mechanisms or components that help the pathogen avoid detection by the host immune system. A number of components contribute to P. multocida's pathogenicity, particularly its toxins and capsule. The primary clinical signs and peracute or acute pathological alterations in other HS instances include septic pneumonia, petechial hemorrhages, ecchymoses in the serous membranes, adrenal glands, and abomasum with severe bleeding, as well as widespread head and neck edema. The affected animals exhibit fever, sadness, and other vague clinical symptoms (such reduced milk production), which are quickly followed by copious serous nasal discharge and excessive salivation. Hemorrhagic septicemia-causing P. multocida strains may not be found in previously obtained samples, but they can be cultivated from blood in the later stages of the illness. The transmission of hemorrhagic septicemia can occur through direct touch, ingestion, or inhalation of contaminated feed or water. HS is an illness that has significant economic implications, particularly in Asia and, to a lesser degree, Africa. Antibiotics of several kinds have been used to treat HS illness. Effective control of a variety of HS diseases will be aided by hygienic planning, immunoprophylaxis, chemotherapy, and fundamental management practices including feeding and maintenance. [Open Vet J 2025; 15(2.000): 519-532]

Keywords

• hemorrhagic septicemia
• livestock
• pasteurella multocida