Bovine hump disease

Gummy Skin Disease (LSD) is a disease that affects cattle and causes fever, depression, lumps and edema, enlarged lymph nodes, as well as lumps in the mucous membrane, discharge from the nose and eyes, reduced milk production, swelling of the legs, and limping.

Clinical signs are more pronounced in dairy cows during the peak of lactation and in young calves.

The disease is present in Africa and the Middle East; in recent years, outbreaks of this disease have been recorded in Turkey. In 2015, the disease was reported in Greece, while in 2016 it reappeared again in Greece, followed by a sudden attack in Bulgaria and Macedonia.

The disease has a significant economic impact due to the loss of production (p.sh decline in milk production, reduced skin quality, restrictions on movement and trade in the affected areas).

Disease transmission (transmission)

The virus is mainly transmitted mechanically through vector insects (mosquitoes, flies, ticks, etc.) or by contaminated needles. Some of these can potentially come through the wind or even inside vehicles. Certain vectors vary between countries and have been studied very little. Once they reach the new area, they spread very quickly during periods of flies p.sh during the summer and autumn months when the weather is humid and warm. The disease can also spread through contaminated food, water, and equipment. The virus is not transmitted to humans.

Clinical signs - diagnosis

Skin lumps measuring 5-50 mm (round in shape) that appear on the skin, usually appear on the scalp, neck, breasts, genitals, limbs, and perineum 2 days after the onset of fever. The lumps can cover the entire body or only some of them may appear. The lumps may disappear or ulcerate, leaving scars.
Clinical diagnosis is confirmed by laboratory analysis of blood samples or tissue samples from skin lesions. Treatment: There is no treatment for skin nodular disease (LSD).

 

 

Disease Prevention

It is difficult to stop cattle attacks from vectors (flies, etc.) if infection exists within the area. The risk increases the likelihood that infections will be transmitted between locations. Preventive measures can improve the herd's level of protection against Skin Lump Disease (LSD) and other infectious diseases.

Biosafety Measures

Implementation of biosecurity measures:

• Since animals and vehicles can carry live vectors (flies, mosquitoes, etc.) between different areas, avoid entering or opening such vehicles inside or near livestock properties until disinfection with approved products is carried out
• Protect animals from insects (p.sh treatment with approved repellents, remove and place animals in places where there is no rain or fewer flies)
• Change needles during animal handling