Doda, October 9 (Daily Kiran) : The Doda district in Jammu and Kashmir is grappling with a worrying outbreak of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), with over 300 cases reported in the last three months. This rapid spread has raised concerns among local livestock farmers. In response, the district’s Animal Husbandry Department has launched an extensive vaccination, awareness, and treatment campaign in affected areas.
Dr. Irfan Ali Wani, the Chief Animal Husbandry Officer, assured residents that there is no need for panic, emphasizing that the situation is under control. Vaccination teams have been actively visiting homes in the Baggar area to inspect and vaccinate animals.
A local farmer expressed his initial fears when the disease first appeared, stating, “This is our only source of income, and it supports everyone in the village. We immediately contacted the Animal Husbandry Department, and their team came quickly to vaccinate our livestock. The doctors advised us to maintain cleanliness in the animals’ living spaces. Currently, the situation is manageable.”
Another farmer added, “The disease spread suddenly, but now the vaccination campaign is in full swing, and the doctors are providing all possible help. We were very worried about our animals, but the doctors’ presence has brought us relief. We hope timely vaccinations will prevent this disease from returning.”
Dr. Wani provided further insights, noting that the outbreak of Lumpy Skin Disease is not limited to Jammu and Kashmir but is also being observed across northern India. Although sporadic cases have been recorded in the district, he reassured the public that there is no cause for alarm. The disease spreads through contact between infected and healthy animals, or via bites from mosquitoes and flies.
To combat the outbreak, the department has deployed multiple teams to the field. These teams focus on raising awareness and providing immediate treatment where cases arise. With a treatment period of four to five days, most animals recover as long as they continue to eat and drink. He mentioned that most necessary medications are available, although some may need to be ordered from outside at a cost of around 100-200 rupees.
Dr. Wani stated that the mortality rate for this disease is only 1 to 2 percent, and the situation remains under control. Despite rumors of livestock deaths, he noted that when evidence is requested, it often cannot be provided. Doda’s challenging mountainous terrain can delay access between villages, compounded by staff shortages. Nevertheless, field staff are working diligently to reach all areas. In the past three months, approximately 300 cases have been reported, with the virus affecting animals with lower immunity more severely, while those with stronger immune systems generally remain unaffected.
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