Abstract:
Lumpy skin disease (LSD) poses a significant financial threat to farmers and stands as a major obstacle to global trade. The virus responsible, known as lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV), belongs to the Capripoxvirus genus. One of its primary impacts is a substantial reduction in milk production, which can plummet from 10% to 85%. In places like Karachi, Pakistan, the consumption of milk and meat has dropped by 60% to 70% due to LSD outbreaks. This disease affects cattle of all species and ages, with lactating cows and young cattle being particularly vulnerable. LSD outbreaks are prevalent in hot, humid environments, coinciding with peak fly activity, which serves as a vector for transmission. The disease spreads relatively fast among animals. While mortality rates are generally low (ranging between 0% and 7%), morbidity spans from 0.75% to 100%. Lesions manifest in various tissues like reproductive, respiratory, and digestive systems, leading to secondary complications such as mastitis, pneumonia, skin infections, limping, diarrhea, and myiasis. Consumption of milk and meat from infected animals is not recommended, emphasizing the importance of robust infection control and preventive measures. Limiting the movement of infected animals is a key strategy in nonendemic areas. Additionally, reducing the population of insects and vectors is crucial for disease control. Vaccination using the homologous strain of LSDV stands out as one of the most effective methods to control LSD. Rapid and accurate diagnosis, especially in endemic regions, is vital to implementing timely control measures and curbing the spread of the disease.
Keywords:
Pathology
,
economic impact
,
Vaccination
,
Lumpy Skin Disease