Mystery camel illness identified as 'Gul Ghoto' virus

Over 12,000 camels examined; emergency vaccination, treatment underway

RAHIM YAR KHAN:

The mysterious disease affecting camels in the Cholistan Desert has been officially identified as the deadly "Gul Ghoto" virus, according to a report issued by the National Institute of Health (NIH), Islamabad.

The Livestock Department confirmed that multiple samples, including blood, saliva, and tissue, from infected camels across different areas were sent to the NIH for analysis.

The report revealed that the virus causes severe respiratory distress, including swelling of the throat, coughing, and difficulty breathing.

In severe cases, the infection can stop the animal's breathing, leading to death.

Field teams of the Livestock Department have so far examined over 12,000 camels in the region, with more than 1,100 animals showing clear symptoms such as high fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and laboured breathing.

Emergency vaccination and treatment campaigns are currently underway, with teams actively monitoring remote areas of Cholistan to contain the outbreak.

Authorities are also educating camel owners about precautionary measures, including isolation of affected animals, vaccination, and proper hygiene practices, to prevent further spread of the disease.

Despite official reports confirming 10 deaths due to Gul Ghoto, local sources and herders claim that over two dozen camels have died, highlighting discrepancies in mortality figures and raising questions about the true extent of the outbreak.

The Livestock Department has stated that vaccines for Gul Ghoto are locally produced, but the delayed administration of immunisation has been cited as a challenge in controlling the disease in a timely manner.

Officials emphasised that continuous surveillance and rapid response measures are being maintained to minimize losses and ensure the safety of livestock, which is a critical economic resource for communities in the Cholistan region.

With the outbreak now officially confirmed, livestock authorities are coordinating with field teams and local herders to implement emergency interventions, while further laboratory studies are being conducted to assess the virus's spread and severity.

The Department of Livestock has reassured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to control the situation and prevent further fatalities, underlining the importance of prompt reporting and vaccination of camels in affected areas.