Hemorrhagic septicemia: A major threat to livestock health

Hemorrhagic septicemia (HS) is an acute septicemic disease that primarily affects cattle and buffalo. This illness is caused by a specific serotype of Gram-negative coccobacillus, Pasteurella multocida. The frequency and distribution of HS epidemics involving various animal species vary according to the agroclimatic zone. HS has significant economic implications, particularly in Asia and, to a lesser extent, Africa. The transmission of HS can occur through direct contact, ingestion, or inhalation of contaminated feed or water. The virulence factors of P. multocida include a number of defense mechanisms or components that help the pathogen be detected by the host immune system. A number of components contribute to the pathogenicity of P. multocida, particularly its toxins and capsules. The primary clinical signs and peracute or acute pathological alterations in other HS cases 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. Affected animals exhibit fever, sadness, and other vague clinical symptoms (such as reduced milk production), which are quickly followed by copious serous nasal discharge and excessive salivation. HS-causing P. multocida strains may not be found in previously obtained samples, but they can be cultivated from blood during the later stages of the illness. Antibiotics of several types have been used to treat HS. Effective control of various HS diseases will be aided by hygienic planning, immunoprophylaxis, chemotherapy, and fundamental management practices, including feeding and maintenance.