Lumpy Skin Disease Spreads to Several Areas of Ganderbal

Lumpy Skin Disease Spreads to Several Areas of Ganderbal

*Over 250 Cases Reported; Seven Cattle Deaths Confirmed* —
*Vaccination Drive Intensified*

GANDERBAL SEPTEMBER 17: Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) has spread to several areas of Ganderbal district, with more than 250 cases reported so far, including cases in Tullamulla and adjoining areas. The disease has also claimed the lives of seven cattle, according to officials.
Speaking to MAQSAD NEWS, Dupty Director Animal Husbandry, Dr. Riyaz Reshi, said that the disease was initially detected in the Hakeem Gund area of Ganderbal, after which cases were reported from surrounding areas, including Tullamulla.
Dr. Reshi said the department has taken preventive and control measures and that vaccination has been carried out through Rapid Action Teams in the affected and vulnerable areas. He said the teams have been working to contain the spread and provide necessary assistance to livestock owners.
He further said that Section 20 has been imposed as part of the measures being taken to control the disease and prevent its further transmission.
Officials said that more than 250 cases have been detected across the district, particularly in forest and marshy areas, where the presence of mosquitoes and other biting insects is relatively high. According to the department, Lumpy Skin Disease spreads mainly through blood-feeding insects, including mosquitoes.
According MAQSADNEWS. Dr.Reshi advised livestock owners to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their cattle from mosquito and other insect bites. He particularly stressed the importance of keeping affected or suspected animals separate from healthy cattle to reduce the possibility of transmission.
The Animal Husbandry authorities have also urged livestock owners to immediately inform veterinary teams about suspected cases and follow the advice provided by veterinary personnel.
While confirming seven cattle deaths so far, Dr. Reshi said that the situation is under control, with Rapid Action Teams carrying out vaccination and other necessary measures.
However, the increasing number of cases has raised concern among livestock owners, who have stressed the need for sustained veterinary surveillance and timely field intervention, particularly in affected and adjoining areas.
Residents said that early and continuous intervention is important to prevent the disease from spreading further and to protect the livelihood of farmers dependent on livestock.
The authorities have advised cattle owners to maintain cleanliness around cattle sheds, minimise mosquito breeding areas, isolate suspected animals and seek veterinary assistance without delay if symptoms of Lumpy Skin Disease are observed.