Executive Summary & Operational Context
Hemorrhagic Septicemia (HS, popularly known in Hindi as Galghotu or Ghotu) is an acute, deadly bacterial septicemia caused by Pasteurella multocida (Serotype B:2 in India). It primarily strikes buffaloes and cows during monsoon stress, causing massive throat edema, loud agonizing snorings, and death by asphyxiation within 12 to 24 hours.
Buffaloes are three times more susceptible to HS than cows. Pre-monsoon vaccination in May-June with Alum-precipitated or Oil-adjuvant vaccine prevents 99% of seasonal deaths.
Clinical Progression & Pathognomonic Symptoms
HS is triggered when carrier animals carrying Pasteurella in their nasopharynx experience acute stress (monsoon rains, sudden temperature drops, exhausting ploughing, or transport). Symptoms progress rapidly: Phase 1: Sudden spike in body temperature (105–107°F), extreme shivering, and profuse salivation; Phase 2: Rapid development of hot, tense, painful inflammatory swelling under the jaw (submandibular edema) extending down the throat and brisket; Phase 3: Severe respiratory distress, extended neck, protruding cyanotic (blue) tongue, and loud grunting or snoring rattling breath ("Galghotu") as trachea is compressed by inflammatory fluid, culminating in death by suffocation within 18 hours.
How to Implement on Your Dairy Farm
Vaccinate All Stock Every May-June
Ensure 100% of cows and buffaloes receive pre-monsoon HS vaccine (3 mL s/c) before seasonal rains begin.
Emergency Antibiotic Injection on Day 1
At the first sign of fever or throat stiffness, immediately inject Sulfa drugs (Sulphadimidine 33.3% IV at 100 mL/100 kg) or Ceftiofur sodium or Oxytetracycline.
Administer Dexamethasone to Relieve Throat Swelling
Inject corticosteroid (Dexamethasone or Isoflupredone) under veterinary supervision to rapidly shrink throat edema and clear airway (contraindicated in late pregnancy).
Recommended Breeds for this System
Related Dairy Guides in Disease & Health
Mastitis in Dairy Cows: California Mastitis Test (CMT), Teat Dip & Intramammary Treatment
Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in Cattle: Goat Pox Vaccine Schedule, Treatment & Bio-Security
Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD / Khurpakka-Munhpakka): Vaccination Timing & Outbreak Protocol
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions: Hemorrhagic Septicemia (HS / Galghotu): Monsoon Vaccination & Emergency Antibiotic Protocol
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