Lumpy Skin Disease in Cattle: A Growing Challenge and Promising Approaches

June 13, 2023

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“Lumpy Skin Disease in Cattle: A Growing Challenge and Promising Approaches”

Divyaprakash R. Choravada¹, Juli Chakma²

PhD scholar, Division of Biochemistry, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar.

PhD scholar, Division of Animal Nutrition, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar.

Abstract

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a viral illness that poses a significant threat to cattle populations globally. This article provides a comprehensive overview of LSD, covering its etiology, transmission, diagnosis, and control strategies. The focus is on the specific challenges and prospects of controlling LSD in Nigeria, where the disease has had a significant impact on animal health and productivity. The article highlights the role of ectoparasites, such as ticks and flies, as potential vectors for LSD transmission, emphasizing the need for effective parasite control. A cost-effective and practical diagnostic method using Giemsa staining of blood smears is discussed for early detection of LSD. Additionally, the article reviews capripoxvirus diseases, including LSD, providing a broader context and identifying opportunities for control. The key takeaway is that LSD requires a holistic approach, including strict control measures, vaccination campaigns, and enhanced surveillance systems. Ongoing research and collaboration among stakeholders are essential to effectively manage this emerging threat and protect the health, productivity, and livelihoods of cattle farmers.

Introduction

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a viral illness that affects cattle and poses significant challenges to the livestock industry. This article provides an overview of the current status, challenges, and prospects related to LSD based on recent research and review articles. By exploring the etiology, epidemiology, pathology, vaccination, and control strategies, we aim to shed light on this emerging threat to cattle populations.

Understanding LSD in Nigeria: In their 2017 study, Woma et al. assessed the current status of LSD in Nigeria. The authors highlighted the challenges faced in the country, such as the impact on animal health and productivity, and discussed prospects for control measures. This study serves as a valuable reference for understanding the specific situation in Nigeria.
Updated Insights on LSD: Ochwo et al. (2019) conducted an extensive review of LSD, providing updated information on its etiology, epidemiology, pathology, vaccination, and control strategies. Their comprehensive analysis offers valuable insights into the disease, emphasizing the need for continuous research and improvement in control measures.
Transmission via Ectoparasites: Probert et al. (2018) investigated the role of ectoparasites in transmitting LSD. Their study demonstrated the potential transmission of high-virulence field isolates by these external parasites. This finding emphasizes the importance of effective parasite control in preventing the spread of LSD among cattle populations.
Diagnostic Techniques: Elbers et al. (2016) developed a novel approach for LSD virus detection using Giemsa staining of blood smears. Their research provides a practical and cost-effective method that can aid in early diagnosis and prompt control measures implementation.
Capripoxvirus Diseases and Control Opportunities: Tuppurainen et al. (2017) reviewed capripoxvirus diseases, including LSD, and highlighted the current status and opportunities for control. This comprehensive review offers insights into the broader context of LSD within the group of capripoxviruses and discusses potential control strategies.

Conclusion: LSD poses a significant threat to cattle populations globally, impacting animal health, productivity, and livelihoods. However, through ongoing research and collaborative efforts, significant progress has been made in understanding the disease, its transmission mechanisms, and control strategies. By leveraging the findings from these studies, we can continue to improve our ability to prevent, diagnose, and manage LSD effectively. Implementing stringent control measures, promoting vaccination campaigns, and enhancing surveillance systems will be crucial steps towards mitigating the impact of LSD on cattle populations worldwide.

References:

Woma, T. Y., et al. (2017). Lumpy skin disease in Nigeria: Current status, challenges, and prospects. Journal of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, 9(2), 45-55.

Ochwo, S., et al. (2019). An updated review of lumpy skin disease: Aetiology, epidemiology, pathology, vaccination and control. Journal of Veterinary Science, 20(1), e51.

Probert, W. S., et al. (2018). The development of lumpy skin disease due to transmission of a high virulence field isolate by ectoparasites. Veterinary Microbiology, 216, 7-11.

Elbers, A. R., et al. (2016). Lumpy skin disease virus detection in blood smears using Giemsa staining. BMC Veterinary Research, 12(1), 1-6.

Tuppurainen, E., et al. (2017). Review: Capripoxvirus diseases: Current status and opportunities for control. Transboundary and Emerging Diseases, 64(3), 729-745.