Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) is a serious viral disease that primarily affects cattle and buffalo.
Australia is currently free from Lumpy Skin Disease and has never had an incursion of the disease. An outbreak in Australia could have significant impacts on animal health and welfare, livestock production and trade.
Lumpy Skin Disease does not affect people.
How does Lumpy Skin Disease spread?
LSD is mainly spread by biting insects such as flies and mosquitoes, and parasites such as ticks.
The disease can also spread through:
- movement of infected animals
- contaminated equipment and livestock vehicles
- contaminated clothing and footwear
- direct contact between infected and susceptible animals.
Some animals infected with LSD may not show obvious signs of disease.
What are the signs?
Signs of Lumpy Skin Disease can include:
- firm, raised lumps or nodules on the skin, which can be up to 50 mm in diameter
- fever
- swelling of the limbs, brisket, genitals or lymph nodes
- watering eyes
- increased nasal or salivary secretions
- loss of appetite
- reluctance to move
- reduced milk production
- abortion in pregnant animals.
The skin nodules can develop anywhere on the body, but are often found around the head, neck, genitals and limbs.
What should you do if you suspect Lumpy Skin Disease?
Lumpy Skin Disease is a nationally notifiable animal disease.
If you suspect an animal may have Lumpy Skin Disease, report it immediately by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Do not move potentially affected animals unnecessarily and follow the instructions of animal health authorities.
A suspected case will be investigated by a veterinarian in your state or territory.
More information
For the latest information about Lumpy Skin Disease, including Australia's disease status, current risks, signs and reporting requirements, visit the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry website.