Lumpy Skin Disease still rife in Karnataka; more than 21,305 cattle deaths recorded

Bengaluru: The dreaded Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in cattle is still not brought under control in the state. So far, more than 21,305 cattle have perished due to the viral infection, raising concerns.

In 15,977 villages of about 230 taluks of the state, 2,37,194 cows have been afflicted by the LSD, of which 1.64 lakh have recovered. Rest are receiving medical treatment from the government.

On perusing the district-wise data from the government, Udayavani found that the pace of vaccination against LSD is severely lacking in some districts as there is an acute lack of staff.

The Chief Minister has announced the release of Rs 37 crores as compensation to the owners of the deceased cattle. Its distribution is expected to start from Wednesday.

Officials said the grant has been released. A maximum of Rs.20,000 for each heifer, Rs.30,000 for bulls, and Rs.5,000 for each calf will be paid for the cattle that died since August this year which disbursed directly to the bank account of the owners.

Highest deaths reported in Belagavi 

Of all the cattle deaths, 5,120 deaths were reported from the Belagavi district alone. The disease was found in about 42,225 cattle in 1,077 villages of the district. Also, close to 7.42 lakh cattle have been vaccinated in this district.

Similarly, 2,322 deaths have been reported in Haveri, 1,188 in Davangere, 2,878 in Ballari-Vijayanagar, 1,225 in Chitradurga, and 1,093 in Bagalkot.

Fewer deaths in Dakshina Kannada-Udupi

Compared to the entire state, Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts have the lowest infection and death rates. At present, 1,226 infections and 32 deaths have been reported in Dakshina Kannada, whereas 798 cases and three cattle deaths were reported from Udupi.

Gram Panchayats told to take precautions

All Gram Panchayats have been instructed to take urgent measures to prevent the spread of the disease.

Along with vaccination, controlling the breeding of mosquitoes, insects, and flies is very important for disease control as LSD spreads from insect bites.

Therefore, it is suggested that all necessary measures including spraying insecticides in the open areas of the villages, farmers’ cattle sheds, and surrounding areas for the control of flies, mosquitoes, and biting insects at the panchayat level.

Slow speed of vaccination

Though vaccination is effective in controlling the disease, it has gained momentum only in some districts. In Ramanagara, 89% of cattle have been vaccinated. More than 7 lakh cows have been vaccinated in Belgaum. But in some places, due to a shortage of staff, there have been delays in meeting the vaccination targets. Bidar, Shimoga, Gadag, and Mysuru districts have an acute shortage of veterinary staff for carrying out vaccination drives.