An outbreak of haemorrhagic septicaemia (septicaemic pasteurellosis) in cattle in Zimbabwe

An outbreak of haemorrhagic septicaemia caused by Pasteurella multocida in beef cattle in Zimbabwe grazing effluent-irrigated pastures, is described. The outbreak occurred during the wet summer months and predisposing stress factors included excessive rainfall and unusual cold weather during the preceding month. History, clinical features and post-mortem findings were consistent with reports of the disease from other countries, except that meningitis was also a constant feature. Morbidity approached 77% and mortality 5 per cent. Prophylactic treatment and vaccination with a killed bacterin together with a return of warmer and drier weather were probably important in halting the outbreak.