Lumpy skin disease – a small nodule, a big threat

Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) is an important viral disease of cattle and buffaloes that has emerged as a major threat to livestock health and the agricultural economy of the country. This disease, caused by the Lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV) of the genus Capripoxvirus, was largely restricted to Africa but has now progressively expanded to several parts of the world. LSD was first reported in India in 2019, after which there have been many outbreaks of this disease in India. The disease is primarily transmitted mechanically by blood-feeding arthropods and is characterised by fever, lymph node enlargement, oedema and distinctive skin nodules. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and epidemiological data and confirmed by laboratory techniques. As there is no specific antiviral treatment, the main focus is on supportive therapy. With proper vaccination, early detection of clinical signs, prompt isolation of infected animals, movement control and vector management, this disease can be prevented and controlled. By increasing awareness among farmers and timely intervention by the veterinarians and animal health authorities, we can minimize the economic losses to the farmers and protect livestock-based livelihoods.