Another in Muravera and a further one in Villaputzu. The number of outbreaks of lumpy skin disease in Sardinia has risen to three, according to confirmation from the Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Abruzzo, an Italian reference center.
According to the national veterinary epidemiological bulletin, the number of infected animals increased from five (all calves born to vaccinated mothers) to seven: four have died, and the carcasses have already been disposed of. The cases were detected on three farms, which together house 178 cattle.
Upon discovering the first case two months after the six-month ban on animal movements, the regional health department, led by Alessandra Todde, reassured: "The situation is under control." But these reassurances aren't enough to allay the anxieties and fears of politicians and farmers. "We cannot afford to underestimate what is happening: the resurgence of lumpy skin disease in Sardinia is a very serious alarm bell for the entire agricultural and livestock sector on the island," said regional councilor Emanuele Cera of the Italian Democratic Party (FdI). He formally requested an urgent joint meeting of the Productive Activities (of which he is vice president) and Health committees to analyze the emergency and review the actions already undertaken or to be implemented immediately.
"The news of new outbreaks , with animals already dead and the concrete risk of the virus spreading, should not cause alarm, but neither should they leave us indifferent . We are facing a situation that could rapidly degenerate , with very serious economic consequences for farmers and the entire Sardinian rural economy," he emphasizes. "We need clarity on what is happening, on the measures adopted and on those still missing, given the resurgence of the viral disease. It is essential to involve all the relevant authorities, from veterinary services to trade organizations, to convey our considerations to the ministry." According to Cera, "we need to identify adequate extraordinary funds to support farmers and strengthen containment measures. Any delay risks turning a health emergency into a full-blown economic crisis. The Region must be ready."
(Unioneonline)