Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in Cattle: Signs, Prevention and Farm Biosecurity

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a viral disease of cattle that spread rapidly through Pakistan in 2022, causing deaths, abortions and severe milk losses. It mainly affects cattle; buffaloes are much less commonly affected. Because there is no cure for the virus itself, prevention matters most.

How LSD spreads

The virus is carried mainly by biting insects — flies, mosquitoes and ticks — moving between animals. Movement of infected animals between farms and markets spreads it over long distances. Outbreaks are usually worst in warm, wet months when insects are most active.

Signs to watch for

• High fever and a sudden drop in milk.
• Firm, round nodules (lumps) on the skin, often 2–5 cm across, over the head, neck, body and udder.
• Swollen lymph nodes, watery eyes and nasal discharge.
• Swelling of the legs and brisket; lameness.
• Abortion in pregnant cows.

Prevention

Vaccination

The livestock department has run LSD vaccination campaigns since the 2022 outbreak. Vaccinate cattle as advised — usually once a year ahead of the insect season — and vaccinate new animals before they join the herd.

Insect control

• Remove standing water and manure heaps where flies and mosquitoes breed.
• Use insect control on animals and in the shed as advised by your veterinarian.
• Use fly screens or nets where practical, especially for young calves.

Biosecurity

1. Isolate sick animals and any new purchases for at least 2–3 weeks.
2. Avoid buying animals from areas with active outbreaks.
3. Limit visitors and vehicles to the animal area during outbreaks.
4. Use separate equipment for sick animals.

Caring for affected animals

There is no specific antiviral treatment, but supportive care from a veterinarian — fever control, treatment of secondary skin infections, soft feed and clean water — helps most animals recover. Recovery of milk and skin can take weeks. Do not drink raw milk from sick animals; boil all milk.

Record which animals were vaccinated and when, and log every suspected case. Clear records help your veterinarian and the livestock department respond quickly.