adminAgriculture Reporter
Lumpy Skin Disease is a specified viral disease of cattle transmitted by biting insects and characterised by nodular swellings on the skin and other parts of the body.
The disease occurs in Zimbabwe and other southern and eastern African countries.
The nodules may develop into abscesses which can break to form open wounds.
Cause: Two viruses are implicated, namely; Neethling poxvirus strain which can be severe, and a mild form caused by Allerton strain.
Clinical signs: The disease usually occurs in the rainy season and the incubation period is about 7-14 days.
The animal develops a high fever, milk yield drops dramatically and it stops eating.
The nodules are distinct, round, raised, firm and painful.
One or more limbs can swell up.
In complicated cases, udder infection and severe udder damage can occur.
If a bull’s testicles are affected, sterility can result.
Online Reporter