Medical Investigation Launched After Mass Livestock Deaths in Métlaoui; Food Poisoning Suspected

An urgent medical investigation is underway in Métlaoui, Tunisia, following the sudden death of over 150 sheep and goats. The drastic loss has sent shockwaves through the local livestock sector, particularly affecting ovine and caprine farming in the periphery of the mining town.

Sanitary inspectors from the Directorate of Animal Production were deployed to the affected areas. Veterinarians conducted thorough clinical examinations on the surviving herd, which numbers around 300 animals. Preliminary anatomical examinations of the deceased livestock revealed significant visceral congestion and acute gastric disorders, strongly indicating a rapid-onset enterotoxemia infection. This condition is often triggered by abrupt, unprepared changes in diet or the ingestion of water contaminated by the summer heat.

To rule out contagious diseases and confirm the diagnosis, veterinarians collected water sediment and deep tissue samples from the affected animals. These samples were sealed and transported to central laboratories in Tunis for comprehensive toxicological and bacteriological analysis. The goal is to formally identify the pathogenic strain and map any potentially contaminated grazing lands.

Local farmers, represented by Wassem Brahmi, are sounding the alarm as the death toll continues to rise rapidly. The speed of the outbreak has led to fears of further losses, prompting agricultural unions to request emergency state assistance for prophylactic treatments. This crisis highlights the extreme vulnerability of extensive livestock farming systems to sudden environmental shifts, especially during prolonged periods of drought.

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The accounting that exceeds one hundred and fifty animals perished in the space of a few hours.