Tunisian Veterinarians Warn of Extreme Heat Stress on Livestock

Tunisia's veterinary authorities are sounding the alarm over the critical impact of extreme heat on livestock, urging immediate protective measures. Dr. Yazen Rebaï, Secretary-General of the National Council of the Order of Veterinarians, described the current heatwave as severely affecting animal metabolism and leading to serious systemic failures, a condition known as "thermal stress." This biological imbalance occurs when extreme air temperatures combine with high humidity, hindering animals' ability to regulate their body temperature. "The animal's thermal regulation mechanism blocks in case of strong heat, making it incapable of evacuating its excess calories, which engages its vital prognosis in the short term," Dr. Rebaï explained. The veterinary council is calling for strict zootechnical safeguarding protocols to prevent significant financial losses and mortality rates, particularly in the poultry and cattle sectors. Recommendations include prohibiting grazing during peak heat hours, maximizing shade in animal shelters, optimizing air volume per animal, and investing in advanced cooling systems like misting and industrial refrigeration within breeding facilities. Dr. Rebaï also addressed a common misconception, firmly debunking the myth that summer heat increases the prevalence of rabies in stray dogs. He clarified that rabies is a viral pathology that circulates consistently throughout the year, unaffected by thermal or meteorological factors.

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The rise in thermometer recorded in this month of July directly and violently impacts animal metabolism.