July 25, 2025

Lumpy skin disease outbreak in Pune, India may lead to a drop in milk production 

With over 900 cattle infected with Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) and more cases emerging daily, Pune district is staring at a potential decline in milk supply.

Animal husbandry officials said that the spread of LSD – which affects cattle health – has been reported in 122 epicentres of the district, and can significantly reduce milk production. Pune district, with over 8.46 lakh cattle as per the 20th livestock Census, is a major contributor to milk production. An outbreak on a large scale could disturb both the rural economy and urban milk supply chains, officials said. LSD is economically important for producers as it can cause a temporary reduction in milk production, impact fertility, damage hides, and result in the death of cattle in severe cases.

Considering this, Pune district collector Jitendra Dudi called a review meeting with district animal husbandry officer Dr Vishnu Garje, assistant commissioners, and taluka-level officers. Dudi said, "To contain the spread, vaccination must be carried out within a five-kilometre radius of infected areas." He instructed that in areas facing shortage, additional personnel should be deployed from other talukas or departments.

In an order issued the same day, Dudi stated that it will be mandatory to possess a vaccination certificate showing that the bovine animals (cattle) and other related species (excluding buffaloes) being transported within or outside the controlled area have received the preventive Goat Pox vaccine at least 28 days before movement. Besides, a ban has been imposed on transport from or within the controlled area of live/dead bovine animals infected with LSD; any fodder, shelter grass, or other material that has come in contact with such infected animals; or their carcasses, hides, body parts, or any product/s derived from them.

Dudi has directed that infected cattle receive immediate treatment and that biosecurity measures—including disinfection, cleanliness in cattle sheds, and use of sanitising sprays—be strictly enforced to prevent further spread of the disease.

-      Hindustan Times