Southern Europe has confirmed its first cases of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in dairy cattle, marking a critical development in the global spread of this economically damaging livestock disease. Originally endemic to Africa, LSD has steadily expanded across the Middle East, Asia, and now into Europe.
Understanding Lumpy Skin Disease LSD is caused by a Capripoxvirus. It leads to painful skin nodules, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, oedema, lameness, and a significant decline in milk yield and fertility. Although mortality rates are typically under 10%, the disease severely disrupts dairy production, reduces hide value, and necessitates expensive control measures.
LSD Transmission occurs mainly via biting insects, such as mosquitoes, flies, and ticks. It can also spread through direct contact between animals and contaminated equipment. These factors make LSD a serious threat in warm, humid environments ideal for vector propagation.
The Southern Europe Outbreak LSD was first detected in Southeast Europe in 2015, beginning in Greece and prompting emergency vaccination and culling strategies in the Balkans. This latest re-emergence underscores the virus’s persistent threat and the need for ongoing monitoring and swift response measures.
Control Measures and Preventive Strategies
- Vaccination: Use of homologous LSD vaccines is critical to containing outbreaks.
- Vector Control: Managing insect populations and preventing breeding sites for vectors is essential.
- Biosecurity measures, including restricting cattle movement, quarantining infected animals, and disinfecting equipment, can help prevent the spread.
- Surveillance: Early detection and transparent reporting to veterinary authorities help curb escalation.
Implications for the Indian Dairy Industry:. For Indian dairy stakeholders, these outbreaks serve as a stark reminder to reinforce domestic preparedness. India has faced LSD outbreaks in recent years, and with increasing global livestock movement and climate-driven vector expansion, vigilance is essential. Dairy cooperatives across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and other high-density milk-producing regions should prioritise LSD surveillance, maintain stockpiles of vaccines, and implement preventive protocols.
As India navigates milk price volatility, production challenges, and rising demand for disease-resilient herds, proactive measures against diseases like LSD will safeguard both livelihoods and consumer trust in the dairy supply chain.
