Lumpy Skin Disease in Meghalaya: Essential steps for disease prevention

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 11, 2023

The Government of Meghalaya is taking proactive measures to address the issue of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in cattle. Dr. Manjunatha C IFS, Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department issued an advisory to inform the general public about this viral disease and launched a helpline number for the farmer who may require further assistance.

Understanding Lumpy Skin Disease

Lumpy Skin Disease is a viral disease in cattle, it will spread by biting of mosquitos, flies and ticks. It is characterized by formation of nodules on the skin all over the body. The infected animals often recover within a period of 2-3 weeks.

Ensuring Public Safety

Lumpy Skin Disease does not transmit to human being. However, the meat and milk of the infected cattle should not be consumed and should not be sold. 

Biosecurity measures:

To prevent the further spread of LSD, the following biosecurity measures are recommended:

• Farmers should isolate infected animals from healthy animals.
• Affected premises shall be disinfected using sodium hyphochlorite (2-3%) or phenol (2%/15 minutes) or Formalin (1%).
• Farmers are requested to contact Rapid Response Teams of Veterinary Department by calling helpline number for disinfection of affected premises and treatment of infected animals.
• Person dealing with infected animals should wear gloves and face mask.
• Movement of person to and from affected cattle shed should be restricted.
• Mosquitos, flies in cattle sheds should be controlled by application of mosquito repellent.
• In case of death of cattle, carcass should be disposed by deep burial method.
• Cattle markets within 10 km radius of epicenter should be closed.

Vaccination to Prevent LSD Spread

• All the healthy animals including calf of more than 4 months and above age,  in 5 km radius around infected area shall be vaccinated to prevent spread of LSD.
• Vaccination camps are being organized and Farmers can call to helpline number for date and time of vaccination camps in nearby villages.
• Vaccination can protect the animal and prevent death of animal.

Treatment for Infected Animals

• Treatment will be given to Infected animals with ani inflammatory drugs, Antihistaminic, antibiotics, immunity booster and trophical application of ointments.
• Infected animals will recover with treatment and reduces mortality of cattle.
• Farmers are requested to call  the helpline number for treatment of infected animals.
• Mobile Veterinary Clinic will be sent to affected villages for treatment and disinfection.

Helpline Number

Famers are requested to contact the following district wise Helpline Number for treatment vaccination and any other information related to control of LSD: