Lumpy Skin Disease detected in cattle and buffaloes in Nagaland; Directorate of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services issues advisory

Kohima, 20 June (MTNews): The Directorate of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services has issued a public advisory to inform dairy farmers, cattle rearers, and the general public about the detection of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in cattle and buffaloes. The confirmation of the disease was made through PCR tests conducted on nasal swabs and skin tissue samples submitted by Nagaland to the AADDMC, College of Veterinary Science, Khanapara, Guwahati.

Lumpy Skin Disease, caused by the Capripox virus, also known as the “Neethling” virus causes devastating economic losses, including increased mortality, reduced productivity, control costs, loss in trade, decreased market value, and a potential impact on food security. It affects cattle and buffaloes, and wildlife species such as deer, bison, and mithun. The symptoms of the disease include high fever, reduced milk yield, skin nodules, loss of appetite, nasal and eye discharges, and the formation of nodules on the body. The disease is transmitted by flies, ticks, and mosquitoes.

To prevent further spread of the disease across the state, the Directorate of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services has issued a strict advisory for all concerned individuals to follow bio-security measures diligently. Livestock farmers, including those involved in dairy farming and cattle/buffalo rearing have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of the disease to the nearest Veterinary Centre.

Additionally, all veterinary doctors stationed at check posts, dairy farms, veterinary hospitals, and dispensaries have been instructed to be on high alert and conduct meticulous examinations of all suspected cases. Samples from these cases should be sent to the ELISA Laboratory in Kohima for further testing. Prompt treatment should be administered to positive cases, following the indicative management and treatment protocols for LSD issued by the Government of India.