LSD DISEASE IN COW: SYMPTOMS, CAUSES, AND HOW TO MANAGE IT

In January 2023, residents in the Kulon Progo area were shocked by the emergence of a new disease that attacks cattle, namely LSD (Lumpy Skin Disease). Even though it is not widely known by the general public, veterinarians at the health center are already prepared to tackle this disease.

What is LSD Disease in Cows?

LSD or Lumpy Skin Disease is an infectious disease caused by a virus from the Poxviridae family. This disease is characterized by the appearance of lumps on the cow’s skin, especially on the neck, back and stomach. In addition to lumps, cows infected with LSD can also experience fever, loss of appetite, lethargy, and experience decreased milk production.

Causes of LSD Disease in Cows

LSD disease in cattle is caused by a virus from the Poxviridae family. This virus spreads through the bites of insects such as mosquitoes and flies. Infected cows will experience an incubation period of 5-14 days before symptoms appear. Disease spread can occur rapidly between cows that are in the same pen or between adjacent pens.

How to Control LSD Disease in Cows

In tackling LSD in cattle, veterinarians at the Kulon Progo Puskeswan are prepared to take various actions. The following are some of the countermeasures that can be done:

1. Vaccination

Vaccination is an effective way to contain the spread of LSD in cattle. Vaccination can be done to cows that have not been infected and to cows that have been infected but are still in the incubation period.

2. Quarantine

Cows infected with LSD must be immediately separated from other cows and placed in quarantine. This is done to prevent the spread of the disease to other cows that are still healthy.

3. Treatment

Cattle infected with LSD can be given drugs to reduce symptoms of the disease such as fever and pain in the skin. This treatment can help the cow to speed up recovery and increase its endurance.

4. Insect Control

Insects such as flies and mosquitoes can be vectors for spreading the virus that causes LSD to cattle. Therefore, insect control must be carried out intensively using insecticides and keeping the cage clean.

LSD disease in cattle can cause huge economic losses for cattle breeders. Therefore, the prevention of this disease must be done seriously and quickly. Veterinarians at the Kulon Progo Puskeswan are ready to tackle LSD by means of vaccination, quarantine, medication and insect control. Vaccination and quarantine can help prevent the spread of the disease, while treatment can help accelerate the recovery of infected cows. Insect control is also absolutely essential to reduce the risk of spreading the virus that causes LSD to cattle.

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