Why This Matters

Over the past week, Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) has been confirmed at cattle farms in both Italy and France. These are the first significant outbreaks in Western Europe, and they raise serious concerns for farmers across the region.

LSD is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads quickly through insect bites and can lead to serious consequences for cattle health, milk production, and overall farm operations. With confirmed cases now in multiple European countries, this is the time to take prevention seriously.

What is Lumpy Skin Disease

LSD is caused by a virus that affects only cattle. It leads to fever, skin nodules, swollen lymph nodes, and a drop in appetite and milk yield. While the disease is rarely fatal, it causes discomfort for animals and may result in trade restrictions or movement bans if detected on your farm.

The virus is most commonly spread by insects such as flies, mosquitoes, and ticks, but can also spread through contaminated equipment and direct contact between animals.

How to Protect Your Herd

Strengthen Insect Control

Insects are the main way the virus spreads. Focus on keeping barns and paddocks clean. Remove standing water, clean manure areas regularly, and use fly repellents or insect traps around the farm. Cattle can also be treated with approved insect-control products.

Isolate New or Returning Animals

Any cattle brought onto the farm or returning from elsewhere should be kept in isolation for at least two to three weeks. Monitor them for fever, skin lumps, and other unusual behavior before they rejoin the herd.

Keep Equipment Clean

Disinfect feeding tools, grooming equipment, and machinery regularly. If you or your team move between farms or barns, wash hands and change clothing to avoid accidentally spreading the virus.

Limit Animal Movement

Avoid moving cattle between farms or regions unless absolutely necessary, especially if you are located near recently affected areas. Monitor regional advisories for guidance.

Learn the Early Signs

Catch it early by checking your herd daily. Watch for fever, drooling, eye or nose discharge, swelling around the head or legs, or raised lumps on the skin. If you see symptoms, isolate the animal and contact your veterinarian right away.

Ask About Vaccination

In some areas, LSD vaccination may be recommended or required. If you are near affected zones, speak to your vet to see if vaccines are available or appropriate for your herd.

Stay Proactive

With outbreaks now confirmed in these countries, the best thing farmers can do is stay informed and act early. A strong prevention plan can help avoid long-term losses and protect both animals and livelihoods.

Stay in contact with the news channels, and for now, this is a good time to review your farm’s biosecurity practices and talk to your local vet if you have concerns.

Protect your girls!