Since the end of June, 2 cases of lumpy skin disease were diagnosed in Italy and one in France, despite being geographically distant from each other. These are the first cases of the disease in 6 years in Europe. Lumpy skin disease affects cattle and buffalo and can cause large economic damage due to reduced milk production, (temporary) infertility, mastitis, and death. Transmission is occurring through flying insects, contaminated needles, semen, or through (in)direct contact with lesions of infected animals.
Additional symptoms are high fever, enlarged lymph nodes, and oedema of the skin, among others. Lumps can appear all over the skin, but especially on the head, neck, and rear area. To contain further spread, strict preventive measures are essential, including import and movement control, proper carcass disposal and hygiene of materials and animal facilities.
Given the long absence of the disease in Europe, these new cases highlight the need for heightened surveillance and biosecurity across the livestock sector.
Check your farm’s biosecurity level for free here.