There are 26 confirmed outbreaks of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD)—also known as lumpy skin disease—on the island. This viral disease affects cattle and has spread rapidly in just a few weeks, raising alarm among regional and health authorities.
The first Italian case was reported on June 21 in the province of Nuoro, followed by an outbreak in Mantua, which was quickly contained by culling the infected animals .
Since then, the Network of Italian Experimental Zooprophylactic Institutes (IZS) has been mobilized, with a leading role entrusted to the IZS of Sardinia and the IZS of Teramo, the latter home to the Reference Center for Exotic Diseases (CESME).
"The priority was to contain the disease," explained Simonetta Cherchi, director general of the IZS Sardinia. "Now, the support of farmers is crucial: vaccinations will begin in the next few days. Vaccinating animals as quickly as possible can make a difference in combating the disease."
LSD is a Category A disease under European legislation, meaning it belongs to the exotic diseases not normally present in the EU and for which immediate eradication is mandatory.
The virus is not transmitted to humans, but it has a significant impact on livestock farming: it causes fever, skin lesions, reduced milk production, abortion in pregnant animals, and damage to meat and hides, with significant economic consequences for farms.
Transmission occurs mainly through insect vectors, such as flies, mosquitoes, and ticks, but can also occur through bodily secretions or contaminated food.
The authorities have already implemented the required measures: blocking the movement of animals, clinical and entomological surveillance, vaccinations, and culling in outbreak areas.
From the very first days, the entire IZS network was mobilized, with personnel deployed to conduct sampling, clinical visits, and checks. The laboratories of the IZS Sardinia and Teramo have been authorized by the Ministry of Health to perform official diagnoses, with reports available within 24 hours. This widespread effort also involves the National Reference Center for Veterinary Epidemiology (COVEPI).
"The institutions are working together to minimize the health and economic impacts," Cherchi added. "Only with effective and timely implementation of procedures and with the full cooperation of farmers will it be possible to contain the spread of the disease."
Until a month ago, Italy was considered "LSD-free." But with the recent outbreaks in Sardinia and Lombardy, it has lost its LSD-free status . And so the effort to vaccinate all at-risk animals as quickly as possible is intensifying.
"The Network of Zooprophylactic Institutes is a fundamental resource for the country: it guarantees surveillance, professionalism, and timely response. It is our first line of defense," concluded Director Cherchi.
(Unioneonline/Fr.Me.)
