Lumpy Skin Disease

2025-06-27 Gallura Disinfestazioni posted:

Everything you need to know about Lumpy Skin Disease

Today we want to talk to you about a disease that is worrying many farmers and livestock enthusiasts: nodular bovine dermatitis known as Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD).

The first case was recently confirmed in Orani and there are also suspicions about a new case in Orotelli where a blood sample and scabs were taken from a bovine with symptoms compatible with the disease.

The entire Sardinian area has been put under lockdown: movements, exports and, most likely, even the slaughter of cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and horses have been suspended.

The restrictions imposed by the Region will last ten days, but if other cases were to emerge, they could be extended. In the Sardinian countryside, the alarm among farmers is intensifying, awaiting official indications from the Government.

What is Lumpy Skin Disease?

Lumpy Skin Disease is a viral disease that mainly affects cattle. It is caused by a virus belonging to the Poxviridae family, and is known for its very obvious and annoying visual symptoms.

How is it transmitted?

The virus is mainly spread by insect vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks and flies, but can also be transmitted by direct contact between infected animals or by contaminated instruments. It is therefore important to take preventive measures to limit the spread.

What are the symptoms?

Infected cattle show:

• Nodules or growths on the skin, often round or irregular in shape
• High fever
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Lesions on the skin and mucous membranes

These symptoms can vary in intensity, but the presence of nodules is a distinctive sign.

Why is it important to intervene?

LSD can cause significant economic losses to farmers, as affected animals can reduce milk production, lose weight or even die in severe cases. Furthermore, the disease also has an impact on animal welfare.

How can it be prevented and controlled?

Prevention is essential! Here are some strategies:

• Vaccination of animals at risk
• Control of insect vectors with disinfestation interventions and use of repellents and anti-insect devices
• Isolation of infected animals
• Hygiene and sanitization of tools and stabling areas

What to do in case of suspicion?

In case of suspicious symptoms in livestock, it is important to contact a veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis helps to contain the spread and implement the most effective control measures.

Lumpy Skin Disease is a serious disease, but with the right precautions we can protect ourselves and our livestock.