Over 230 livestock dead as unknown epidemic spreads in South Ethiopia

ETHIOPIA – An unidentified epidemic has killed over 230 livestock in Uba Debretsehay district, Gofa Zone, South Ethiopia Region, since March 14, 2025. 

The outbreak, which has also spread to Zala district and Sawula town, has left pastoralists and officials scrambling for answers. Veterinary professionals suspect bovine pasteurellosis, a respiratory disease linked to climate fluctuations, but laboratory tests are still underway.

According to Dr. Chernet Lebene, a veterinarian in Gofa Zone, more than 246 animals have died across multiple districts. 

He explained that the disease weakens livestock immunity, particularly when animals move between regions. 

“We are conducting tests to determine the exact cause, but early indications point to bovine pasteurellosis, a lung disease linked to sudden climate changes,” he said.

Ayre Morcha, head of the Agricultural Office in Uba Debretsehay, confirmed that the outbreak began in Hoshle and Kencho kebeles before spreading to 10 others. 

“The sudden shift in weather, from prolonged dry conditions to recent rainfall, may have contributed to the outbreak, he suggested. 

Efforts to contain the disease are ongoing, but the limited availability of vaccines, such as adjuvanted P. haemolytica-ghosts, which protect cattle against pasteurellosis, poses a major challenge.

Mabure Natan, an animal health professional, reported that at least 238 livestock deaths have been recorded in the district.

Pastoralists in the affected regions are witnessing significant losses. Enkele Belachew, a herder from Shala Kebele, lost two oxen, with two others in critical condition. 

“The disease spreads fast. It starts with excessive urination, followed by foamy white discharge and persistent coughing,” he described.

Meanwhile, local broadcaster Dubusha TV reported a similar outbreak in Garda Marta district, where at least 330 animals have died. The report also identified the disease as bovine pasteurellosis and warned that the death toll continues to rise.

Also known as shipping fever or transit fever, the disease is associated with considerable economic losses to the beef industry. 

Researchers have linked Bovine pasteurellosis with losses estimated at nearly US$1 billion annually in North America alone due to reduced animal health, productivity, and increased treatment costs. 

The disease can be controlled by early recognition and prompt treatment with antimicrobials, long-acting antimicrobials, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to control fever. 

If these outbreaks persist in Ethiopia, the repercussions could be dire in this country that has the largest cattle stock in Africa and is a main driver of the beef industry in the continent. 

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