Investigation of outbreaks of pasteurellosis in cattle and buffaloes

Six outbreaks of pasteurellosis were investigated in villages of Uttarakhand, western Uttar Pradesh and National Capital Territory of Delhi during July 2005 to June 2006. Varying mortality (1–7 %), prevalence (2–12 %) and case fatality (43–79 %) were recorded. Most of the animals died peracutely and acutely. Few animals which survived for 24 to 48 hr, showed moderate oedematous swelling in neck region and high body temperature (102 - 108°F). Necropsy revealed consolidation, haemorrhages in lungs, fibrinous exudates and adhesion to the chest cavity. The congestion and haemorrhages were noticed in small intestine, on epicardium, endocardium and other serosal surfaces. Microscopic changes corroborated with gross lesions in target organs. Pasteurella multocida organisms were isolated and many antibiotics including Ceftazidine, Cefotaxime, Amikacin and Ciprofloxacin were found sensitive. The changes in disease pattern and epidemiology have been discussed.