Vol. 7, Issue 6, Part A (2022)

Author(s): Shantaram Bhoye

Abstract: Lumpy skin disease (LSD) causes major economic losses in the livestock industry of most African countries. It is caused by Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV), a member of the Poxviridae family, with the prototype Nettling strain. LSDV belongs to the capripox virus family which includes sheep pox virus and goat pox virus. It is spread by insect vectors between pastures and watering places and cattle congregating in the same barn. LSD is an enzootic infectious, eruptive and rarely fatal disease of cattle characterized by skin nodules. Cattle and water buffalo are the only animal species affected, with high morbidity rates but low mortality, however, mortality is high in calves. LSD reduces milk and beef production, causes abortion in females and infertility in males. The origin of LSD was in Zambia in 1929. LSD is considered an endemic disease in the African continent. However, the disease has moved out of Africa since the 1980s. The disease is reported in LSD-free countries (Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey, Iran and Iraq) with potential economic losses to the livestock industry. Therefore, mass vaccination along with other appropriate control measures is the most effective way to limit the spread and economic impact of lumpy skin disease.

DOI: 10.22271/veterinary.2022.v7.i6a.451