Biomedical Letters

Review article | https://doi.org/10.47262/BL/9.1.20230220

Lumpy skin disease an emerging outbreak in cattle and its impact on human life

Hira Qamar, Hira Hafeez, Waris Ali*, Zunaira Abid Khan*, Muhammad Imran Khan, Muhammad Idrees, Ijaz Ahmad, Ijaz Usman Ali, Rabia Akhtar

Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Okara, 56130, Okara, Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

A viral disease known as lumpy skin disease (LSD) that infects cattle has recently become a danger to the global livestock industry. Capripoxvirus, which causes LSD, can contract through insect bites or through direct contact with infected animals. Cattle with the disease develop nodules on their skin, which reduce their ability to produce milk, cause them to lose weight, and eventually kill them. LSD significantly reduces milk production, which may decrease from 10% to 85%. Milk and meat sales have decreased by 60% to 70% in Karachi (Pakistan), as a result of LSD. Calves of all strains and ages are affected, although lactating cows and young cattle are more at risk. The bulk of LSD outbreaks occur in hot, humid environments when a large percentage of insects that serve as vectors are active. LSD may be transmitted more quickly by wildlife. Nasal secretions, inappetence, fever, lachrymation with salivation, swollen lymph nodules, body weight loss, and sometimes death are all symptoms of LSD. Farmers and the cattle industry have suffered enormous financial losses because of the increase in LSD. Concerns regarding the disease's effects on human health have also been raised due to its zoonotic potential. Although there is no evidence that LSD may be transmitted to others, the risk still exists, especially for those with compromised immune systems. This article discusses the current knowledge of LSD, its clinical manifestations, transmission, and preventive measures. It also draws attention to the effects of LSD breakouts, including financial, social, and medical fallouts, on people's lives. The paper highlights the necessity of continuing research and surveillance to comprehend the illness better and create efficient controls to stop its spread.