A serious septicemic tropical disease caused by a rickettsial agent; geographic distribution primarily sub-Saharan Africa. The causative agent, Cowdria (Rickettsia ruminantium) is transferred by the bont ticks Amblyomma hebraeum and A. variegatumo affecting ruminants (bovine, caprine, and ovine, including antelope); peracute presentation consists of high fever and convulsions; acute cases present with neurologic signs and diarrhea; chronic cases are variable in presentation and signs may include pleural and pericardial effusion. SYN: cowdriosis, veldt disease, veldt sickness.