Significances of Lumpy Skin Disease in Cattle

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a contagious viral disease of cattle, buffaloes and wild ruminants which is caused by Lumpy skin disease virus. The disease is characterized by high fever, lymphadenitis, severe emaciation, bilateral epiphora, drop in milk production, sterility, skin erythema and development of nodules. A major route of transmission is an ulcerated skin lesion, while the virus can also be shed through bodily excretions and secretions. Hematophagic arthropods, such as biting flies, mosquitoes, and ticks, mechanically spread infection. Decreased milk production, abortions, temporary or permanent sterility, damage to the hide, and deaths will ensue, all of which causes significant economic loss to the country. Therefore, the most efficient method of reducing the spread and financial burden of lumpy skin disease is mass vaccination along with other suitable control measures.