Lumpy skin disease is a disease of cattle caused by a virus named as Lumpy Skin Disease Virus(LSDV).The virus belongs to the family Poxviridae and genus Capri Poxvirus.The disease is characterized by the presence of nodules in the skin.
Mode of Transmission
The disease is spread by the bite of insects such as flies, mosquitoes and ticks.In some cases it may spread from one animal to another.It does not pose a substantial risk to man as it is not a zoonotic disease-The diseases which spread from animals to human beings are called zoonotic diseases.But,in some cases humans can also be affected.
Symptoms of the disease
- Painful nodules of skin and mucosal surfaces.
- Fever
- Lethargy
- No hunger at all
- Drop in milk production
- Younger animals are infected more than older ones.
Incubation period of the virus
It is between 4 to 14 days
History of the disease
The disease was originally seen in Zambia in 1929.It was an epidemic there at that time.Many cases were also reported from Zimbabwe and The Republic Of South Africa during the Second World War.Cases have also been reported from Asia and Middle East.
Methods Of Prevention
- Animal movement from one place to another should be restricted during outbreaks.
- Animals should not be allowed to participate in cattle fairs during outbreaks.
- Farm owners should try to minimise the population of vectors --flies, mosquitoes.etc.
Diagnosis of lumpy skin disease
Antigen detection can be done by
- Virus neutralization
- ELISA
- Direct immunofluorescent staining.
Treatment
Unfortunately,there is no specific treatment for the disease.The only treatment at present is to give supportive care to the cattle.Antibiotics can be given to prevent pneumonia and secondary skin infections.NSAIDS can also be given during the course of the disease.
A vaccine named Lumpi-ProVacInd is being developed in India .It is a live attenuated vaccine.
Can one drink the milk of LSD virus affected animal?
The answer is Yes.One can consume milk as well as meat of these animals without any fear.
These days,The disease is currently active in India and has killed more than 50,000 cattle.
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