Recently, the rate of LSD (Lumpy Skin Disease) infection in cattle has increased significantly in the country. Widespread outbreaks have been observed in various districts, including Dinajpur, Jashore, Gopalganj, and Shariatpur. For a farm’s economic collapse, LSD is far more devastating than foot-and-mouth disease.
Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) is a viral skin disease transmitted by vectors. Although it has caused multiple epidemics in Africa, it has never reached epidemic proportions in our country. In Africa, the mortality rate from this disease is around 40%.
Historical Background
- First identified in Zambia (1929), it spread across Africa between 1943 and 1945, killing thousands of cattle in South Africa, Botswana, and other countries, leading to farm closures.
- By the 1970s and 1980s, LSD had spread across Africa, causing massive economic losses for farmers.
- Currently, Bangladesh is witnessing its severe impact, requiring urgent control measures.
Causes of LSD
- Caused by the LSD virus (Capripoxvirus), which spreads from infected to healthy cattle.
Peak Infection Period
- Most common during seasons with high mosquito and fly populations, such as:
- Late monsoon
- Early autumn
- Early spring
Symptoms of LSD
- Initial Stage:
- High fever (104-106°F)
- Pain and loss of appetite
- Skin Lesions:
- Round, firm nodules (1-5 cm) on the skin
- Swelling in legs and lower body due to fluid accumulation
- Internal Ulcers:
- Sores in the mouth and stomach → reduced water/food intake
- Advanced Stage:
- Bleeding from lesions
- Ruptured nodules leading to open wounds
Transmission Methods
- Vector-borne: Mosquitoes, flies, ticks, and lice.
- Direct Contact: Infected cattle, saliva, milk, or semen.
- Human-mediated: Veterinarians, farm workers, or equipment.
- Transportation: Movement of infected animals.
(Note: LSD does not infect humans—only cattle and buffaloes.)
Economic Impact
- Reduced Milk Production
- Abortion & Infertility in cows
- Weight Loss & Poor Skin Quality → Lower market value
Prevention & Control Measures
1. Biosecurity & Hygiene
- Isolate infected cattle immediately.
- Use mosquito nets and insect repellents in farms.
- Maintain farm cleanliness and disinfect equipment.
2. Vaccination (Critical)
- LSD vaccine (Neethling strain) is effective but scarce in Bangladesh.
- Sheep pox vaccine (3-10x higher dose) can be used as an alternative.
3. Movement Restrictions
- Avoid grazing infected cattle in common pastures.
- Restrict cattle movement in outbreak zones.
4. Waste Management
- Bury milk from infected cows to prevent contamination.
Treatment Guidelines
- Veterinary Care: Consult a registered vet immediately.
- Medications:
- Antibiotics (Oxytetracycline) for secondary infections.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (Meloxicam) for pain/fever.
- Wound Care: Clean lesions with Povisept or Iodine solution.
Final Warning
- Without prompt action, LSD can decimate cattle populations and ruin livelihoods.
- Vaccination, hygiene, and early detection are the best defenses.
Farmers must stay alert and proactive to curb this deadly outbreak!
