Review on Epidemiology and Economic Importance of Lumpy Skin Disease

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a generalized skin disease which is an infectious, eruptive, occasionally fatal disease of cattle caused by a virus associated with the Neethling poxvirus in the genus Capri poxvirus of the family Poxviridae. LSD was first described in Zambia and occurs in other most African countries and sporadically in the Middle East region. Mechanical vector insects might play a major role in the epidemiology of LSD and wildlife plays a potential role in its maintenance. The disease causes serious economic losses in most African countries including Ethiopia due to the prolonged loss of productivity from high morbidity, restrictions to the global trade of live animals and animal products, costly control and eradication measures. Factors associated with communal grazing and watering point and introduction of new cattle are significantly high risk of LSD occurrence. The diagnostic tests currently available like the clinical examinations and laboratory tests (Virus isolation / identification and Serological tests) are needed to confirm it. LSD needs to stop if occurred and to block if new either by sanitary (import restrictions on livestock, carcasses, hides, skins and semen) or medical prophylaxis (Vaccination).