What Is Lumpy Skin Disease Spreading Among Cattle In Rajasthan, Gujarat? Know All About It

Lumpy Skin Disease is challenging to eradicate, and early discovery is crucial for effective management and eradication.

The infection of lumpy skin disease (LSD) is spreading fast amongst bovines in Rajasthan after the disease spread in 20 of the 33 districts of the adjoining state of Gujarat. More than 3,000 cattle have died and over 50,000 infected with LSD in nine districts of Rajasthan, as per a Hindustan Times report. The spread of the disease is adversely affecting the dairy sector.

Here is everything you should know about Lumpy Skin Disease, its transmission, prevention, and treatment. 

What Is Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD)?

As per European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), lumpy skin disease is a viral disease that affects cattle. It is transmitted by blood-feeding insects, such as certain species of flies and mosquitoes, or ticks. It causes fever, and nodules on the skin and can also lead to death, especially in animals that have not previously been exposed to the virus. 

Lumpy Skin Disease Transmission  

Department of Forest, Fisheries and Forestry of the Australian Government states that the transmission of LSD is not completely understood. The mobility of infected animals and mechanical transmission by arthropod vectors including mosquitoes, ticks, and biting flies are the two main modes of infection. In some situations, infected equipment and fomites can potentially transmit the disease directly from animal to animal. 

Symptoms Of LSD 

As per UK's National Animal Disease Information Service (NADIS), the following are the identical symptoms of LSD: 

Development of Nodules: Firm, raised nodules up to 50 mm in diameter develop on the skin around the head, neck, genitals, and limbs. Nodules can develop on any part of the body.

Scabs In Nodules: Scabs develop in the centre of the nodules after which the scabs fall off, leaving large holes that may become infected.

Swelling: Swelling of the limbs, brisket, and genitals may occur. 

Watering Eyes: Another symptom of the disease includes watering eyes. 

Increased Secretions Of Fluids: Increased nasal and salivary secretions are seen by veterinary experts in animals infected with LSD. 

Other symptoms noticed are animal generally stops eating and faces problem while chewing which results in reduced milk production. 

Are Treatments Available For LSD? 

There are no vaccines or treatment measures known to combat Lumpy Skin Disease. The only treatment available is good and supportive care of cattle. However, many veterinary doctors suggest the use of sprays to cure skin lesions and the use of antibiotics to prevent secondary skin infections and pneumonia. Anti-inflammatory painkillers can be used to keep up the appetite of affected animals.