KARACHI:
The lumpy skin disease, which was making rounds in different parts of South Asia is now spreading in farms across Sindh. It is a poxviral disease with significant morbidity in cattle. Milking cows and young calves have been the most affected by the disease. The main carrier of the virus is insect vectors including mosquitoes, flies, ticks, etc, along with contaminated needles. According to research, during the summer and autumn seasons, there is a spike in the prevalence of the virus because of moist or warm weather.
There are no treatments for the disease, however, precautionary measures can minimise the losses. Cattle-carrying vehicles, which often carry flies and mosquitoes must be temporarily barred from entering livestock holdings. Medically approved repellents should be used, and needles should be regularly changed when treating the cattle.
In Pakistan, more than 8 million rural population generate their income through the livestock sector. Milk production contributes 6.1% to the GDP. Therefore, the authorities must tackle the issue promptly as cattle farmers will suffer significant losses with a decline in demand for milk and cattle products. There can be long-term consequences as the affected cattle will become infertile. Given that Eid-ul-Azha is only a few months away, the disease outbreak may also impact sacrificial offerings. Livestock animals must be vaccinated, and the public should be informed of the virus and precautionary measures through a widespread awareness campaign.
Neelam Yasir
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, March 10th, 2022.
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