Lumpy skin disease is a notifiable animal disease spread by a virus, which affects cattle.
Suspicion and confirmation
Contact your local Animal and Plant Health Agency Office immediately on 0300 303 8268, if you suspect lumpy skin disease.
APHA vets will investigate suspected cases.
Clinical signs
The following clinical signs may be present:
- fever and malaise
- one or more firm nodules (lumps) which can appear anywhere on the body. They are commonly found on the head, sides, udders and genitalia
- ulcers in the nose and digestive tract
- increased salivation and nasal discharge
- generalised inflammation of the lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy)
- decreased milk yield in lactating cattle
- abortion in pregnant animals
- temporary sterility in cows
- temporary or permanent sterility in bulls
- death in some clinically infected animals
Transmission and prevention
The disease is thought to be spread by blood sucking insects that feed on skin lesions.
You can help prevent disease by:
- following biosecurity measures
- checking animal's health
- discussing any concerns promptly with your vet