Pasteurellosis in Camels – Camel Disease Outbreak in Cholistan  Successfully Contained

An outbreak of Pasteurellosis in Camels has been effectively controlled in Cholistan. This Camel Disease Outbreak hit the various areas of Cholistan, which has been effectively brought under control by the Punjab Livestock Department. Intime action, extensive field surveillance, and immediate treatment helped stabilize the situation and prevent further losses. Senior officials confirmed that all affected animals are now responding well to therapy, and no widespread threat remains.

Rapid Response and Field Operations

Special Secretary Livestock South Punjab, Asad Naeem, announced at a press conference held at the Livestock Complex, Bahawalpur, that the situation is “completely under control.” He said that mobile veterinary teams have been deployed throughout Cholistan, conducting examinations, treatments, and vaccinations.

According to initial reports, 11,597 camels were medically examined across the region. Out of these, only 1,100 showed symptoms consistent with pasteurellosis. All affected camels were immediately provided treatment. Moreover, preventive vaccination is also being done in Cholistan.Clinical improvement generally appears within two to three days of treatment, indicating that the infection is responding rapidly.

Camel Disease Outbreak and Field Investigations

Director General Livestock, Dr. Muhammad Ashraf, explained that the department conducted random sampling in multiple areas to understand the disease pattern. The teams also collected epidemiological data from local herders.

اونٹوں کی ویلفیئر پر جاری تحقیقی منصوبے کے حوالے سے غیر ملکی تحقیقی وفد کا پاکستان کا دورہ

An emergency field visit was led by Dr. Ashraf along with Director Livestock Cholistan, Dr. Syed Muhammad Sibtain, covering locations including Toba Bari, Baht Wala, Waju Wala Daim, Qila Khan Garh, Bajnot Habib Wala, and Dand Wala. Based on their findings, the officials confirmed that only ten camel deaths have occurred so far. They termed higher death toll figures circulating on social media as baseless and misleading.

Technical Aspects of Pasteurellosis in Camels

Pasteurellosis in camels may lead to symptoms such as:

• Sudden fever
• Depression
• Nasal discharge
• Respiratory distress
• Loss of appetite

Stress, harsh climate conditions, nutritional deficiencies, and long-distance movement often increase susceptibility.

The current outbreak resembles the one previously recorded during 2014–15, as noted by Dr. Ashraf. The same treatment approach—primarily involving timely antibiotic therapy and supportive care—has shown 100% effectiveness again. Early detection and rapid intervention remain critical in controlling pasteurellosis outbreaks.

Deployment against Camel Disease Outbreak

The Punjab Livestock Department has mobilized significant human and technical resources to protect camel herds across Cholistan. According to official data:

• 10 Rapid Response Teams are operational
• More than 200 paravets have been deployed
• 18 Mobile Veterinary Dispensaries are working across remote desert routes

These teams are providing both treatment and guidance to camel herders, ensuring proper disease management and preventive measures.

QASWA; Camel Milk Ice Cream in Pakistan

Situation Fully Stabilized

Livestock Department has confirmed that the Camel Disease Outbreak is now fully contained, with continued monitoring underway. Routine field visits, follow-up vaccinations, and ongoing sampling are being carried out to prevent recurrence. The Livestock Department assured camel breeders and the general public that there is no cause for alarm, and accurate information should be relied upon rather than rumors.

Editor In Chief

Dr. Jassar Aftab is a qualified Veterinarian having expertise in veterinary communication. He is a renowned veterinary Journalist of Pakistan. He is veterinary columnist, veterinary writer and veterinary analyst. He is the author of three books. He has written a number of articles and columns on different topics related to livestock, dairy, poultry, wildlife, fisheries, food security and different aspects of animal sciences and veterinary education.

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