Abstract

Hemorrhagic septicemia (HS) constitutes a severe and rapidly progressing infection affecting both domestic and wild animals, most notably cattle and water buffaloes. The geographical distribution of HS is concentrated in tropical regions across the world. The causative agent behind this destructive ailment is Pasteurella multocida, which is recognized as the primary pathogenic factor. The documented instances of HS incidence are primarily associated with the isolation of P. multocida serotypes B:2 and E:2. Dedicated efforts are continuously being undertaken to unravel the intricate aspects of P. multocida's pathogenicity, epidemiology, and the antigenic constituents that contribute to its virulence. In order to curb the prevalence of this ailment, vaccination has emerged as a cornerstone. Various vaccine formulations, including attenuated, oil adjuvant, alum precipitated, and multiple emulsion vaccines, have been developed with the aim of preventing HS and mitigating its devastating impacts. Investigation has been focused on the development and production of an upgraded vaccine with long lasting immunity. Subsequently, efforts are being made to disentangle the ambiguities of causative agent and its virulence elements and pathogenesis. This review is aimed at summarizing the prevalence of HS, pathogenesis, etiological agent and immunological aspects with emphasis on control of HS and vaccine strategies and efforts towards development of effective HS vaccines.