Raising healthy beef cattle is crucial for ensuring food security and sustaining the livestock industry. However, cattle are susceptible to various diseases, some of which can cause significant economic losses and affect public health.

Anthrax

Anthrax is a severe bacterial disease caused by Bacillus anthracis. It affects both animals and humans and is often fatal if not treated promptly. The disease is usually contracted through ingestion or inhalation of spores from contaminated soil, water, or feed.

Symptoms. Sudden death, high fever, difficulty breathing, and bleeding from natural orifices such as the mouth, nose, and anus.

Control. Vaccination is the most effective preventive measure. Infected carcasses should be properly disposed of to prevent the spread of spores, and the area should be disinfected.

Lumpy Skin Disease

Lumpy Skin Disease is a viral disease caused by the Capripoxvirus, primarily affecting cattle in Africa and parts of Asia. It is transmitted by biting insects such as mosquitoes and flies.

Symptoms. Fever, nodules on the skin, swollen lymph nodes, and lameness. In severe cases, it can cause reduced milk production, weight loss, and infertility.

Control. Vaccination is key to preventing LSD. Infected animals should be isolated, and vector control measures should be implemented to reduce the spread.

Brucellosis

Brucellosis, caused by Brucella bacteria, is a zoonotic disease that can be transmitted to humans, primarily through the consumption of unpasteurized dairy products or direct contact with infected animals.

Symptoms. In cattle, it causes abortions, infertility, and reduced milk yield. In humans, it can lead to fever, joint pain, and fatigue.

Control. Vaccination of cattle is crucial, along with testing and culling of infected animals. Proper handling of meat and dairy products is essential to prevent transmission to humans.

Black Quarter

Black Quarter, also known as Blackleg, is a bacterial disease caused by Clostridium chauvoei. It is often fatal and primarily affects young cattle.

Symptoms. Sudden onset of lameness, swelling in the affected muscle, high fever, and rapid death within 12 to 48 hours.

Control. Vaccination is the most effective preventive measure. Infected animals should be isolated, and any affected carcasses should be disposed of carefully to prevent soil contamination.

 Pasteurellosis (Shipping Fever)

Pasteurellosis, commonly known as Shipping Fever, is a respiratory disease caused by Pasteurella bacteria. It often occurs in cattle under stress, such as during transportation or overcrowding.

Symptoms. Fever, nasal discharge, coughing, and rapid breathing. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia and death.

Control. Reducing stress during transport, providing adequate nutrition, and ensuring proper ventilation can help prevent the disease. Vaccination and prompt treatment with antibiotics are also effective.

Senkobo (Rinderpest)

Senkobo, or Rinderpest, is a viral disease that has been eradicated globally but historically was a devastating disease for cattle. It was caused by the Rinderpest virus, which is closely related to the measles virus in humans.

Symptoms. Fever, oral lesions, diarrhea, and dehydration. It often led to high mortality rates in infected herds.

Control. The global eradication of Rinderpest was achieved through widespread vaccination campaigns. Maintaining biosecurity measures is essential to prevent the re-emergence of similar diseases.

Botulism

Botulism is a potentially fatal disease caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum. Cattle typically contract botulism by ingesting contaminated feed or water.

Symptoms. Progressive paralysis, difficulty swallowing, and death due to respiratory failure.

Control. Preventing access to contaminated feed and water sources is crucial. Vaccination can be effective in areas where botulism is prevalent.

Three-Day Sickness (Bovine Ephemeral Fever)

Three-Day Sickness, or Bovine Ephemeral Fever, is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes and other biting insects. It primarily affects cattle in tropical and subtropical regions.

Symptoms. Sudden onset of fever, stiffness, lameness, and loss of appetite. The disease is usually self-limiting, with recovery occurring within three days.

Control. Insect control measures, such as using insecticides and managing breeding sites, can help reduce the incidence. Vaccination is available in some regions.

Babesiosis

Babesiosis, also known as Redwater disease, is a tick-borne disease caused by Babesia parasites. It primarily affects cattle and is transmitted by ticks of the Rhipicephalus species.

Symptoms. Fever, anemia, jaundice, and red-colored urine. Severe cases can lead to death if untreated

Control. Tick control through regular dipping or spraying is essential to prevent the disease. Infected animals can be treated with specific antiprotozoal drugs.

 Heartwater

Heartwater is a tick-borne disease caused by the bacterium Ehrlichia ruminantium. It is prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa and affects both cattle and other ruminants.

Symptoms. Fever, respiratory distress, nervous signs such as twitching and convulsions, and sudden death.

Control. Effective tick control is vital in preventing Heartwater. Vaccination is available in some regions, and early treatment with antibiotics can be life-saving.

Complex Tick-Borne Diseases

Complex Tick-Borne Diseases (CTBDs) refer to the co-infection of cattle with multiple tick-borne pathogens, including those causing Babesiosis, Anaplasmosis, and Theileriosis.

Symptoms. The symptoms vary depending on the combination of infections but often include fever, anemia, jaundice, and general weakness.

Control. Integrated tick management, including the use of acaricides and biological control methods, is essential in preventing CTBDs. Vaccination and early diagnosis can improve outcomes