In this article, I’d like to tell you about the first case of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in Korea, which occurred at a Korean beef farm in Seosan, Chungcheongnam-do. It is a viral disease that only affects cattle and is spread by blood-sucking insects such as mosquitoes. This caused a major emergency for livestock farmers.
The first outbreak of lumpy skin disease and the current situation
On October 19, Chungnam province received a report that skin lesions were found on four cows at a Korean beef farm in Seosan city. The provincial animal health laboratory was immediately dispatched to the scene to collect samples from the affected cow, which tested positive for Rumpiskin. Therefore, the first case was officially recorded on October 20.
The disease causes symptoms of systemic dermatosis in cattle and results in severe productivity losses, including reduced milk yields, leather damage, abortions, and infertility. Specifically, it is characterized by skin nodules (hard bumps) 2 to 5 centimeters in diameter, and mortality rates are known to be 10% or less.
Chungnam province dispatched a super epidemic prevention team and an epidemiological investigation team to the farm to stop the spread of the disease. In addition, 40 cattle will be culled under the Emergency Action Plan.
How to prevent and treat lumpy skin disease
Rumphiskin disease can be prevented by closely monitoring headwaters daily during the insect’s active season and eliminating water puddles around the farm. It also requires the use of exterminators to control insects, prohibiting the reuse of syringes, and maintaining a clean farm environment.
“We need to respond quickly to prevent the spread of lumpy skin disease,” said Oh Jing-ki, director of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “Cattle farmers should thoroughly carry out deworming work such as spraying insecticides and disinfecting the farm and surrounding equipment.” In addition, any symptoms of suspected lumpy skin disease should be reported immediately to the nearest quarantine agency.
Wrapping Up
On October 20, 2023, the first case of Lumpy Skin Disease was reported at a farm in Seosan, Chungcheongnam-do. This has created a major crisis for livestock farmers, but with the right response and preventative measures, they are overcoming it. If you see these symptoms in your neighborhood, please report them immediately.
