Correspondent
July 25, 2023: Nagaland has recently been declared a state with confirmed cases of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in accordance with the "Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009." The declaration comes after detecting positive cases of LSD in four districts of the state.
Lumpy Skin Disease is a poxviral disease that mainly affects cattle and can lead to significant health issues. While the mortality rate is generally low, the disease can cause economic losses for farmers due to various factors like loss of condition, reduced milk production, abortions, infertility, and damage to hides.
According to the World Animal Health Organization (OIE), LSD is considered a notifiable disease because of its rapid spread and the potential for causing substantial economic losses to the livestock industry.
To combat the spread of the disease, Nagaland's Directorate of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, in collaboration with the State Government Department, is implementing strict preventive measures following the guidelines issued by the Indian Government's Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying. These measures include enhanced bio-security protocols to prevent further transmission of the disease.
The recent positive cases were identified through PCR testing conducted at the AADDMC, College of Veterinary Science, Khanapara, Guwahati. In response to the outbreak, all veterinary doctors in Check Posts, Dairy Farms, Veterinary Hospitals & Dispensaries have been placed on high alert. They are instructed to carefully examine all suspected cases and promptly send samples to the ELISA Laboratory in Kohima for further testing.
The state authorities are urging livestock farmers to stay vigilant and report any signs of the disease to the nearest Veterinary Centre. Immediate attention is crucial to contain the outbreak and protect the cattle population from further harm.
Although Lumpy Skin Disease does not pose significant risks to human health, its economic consequences can be severe, leading to reduced milk production, loss of condition, and damaged hides, resulting in hardships for farmers and the agricultural sector. Swift and effective measures are essential to mitigate these adverse effects and safeguard the region's cattle and livestock.
By taking proactive steps and following the guidelines provided by veterinary experts, Nagaland aims to control the outbreak and minimize the impact of Lumpy Skin Disease on its valuable cattle population. Together, with the collective efforts of authorities, farmers, and the public, the state can overcome this challenge and protect its livestock industry and the livelihoods of those dependent on it.