Prevalence, duration of illness, and mortality of lumpy skin disease at Chuadanga Sadar Upazila, Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Lumpy skin disease (LSD) has emerged as a significant threat to cattle production in Chuadanga Sadar Upazila, Bangladesh. Our study aimed to assess the prevalence, mortality, and demographic distribution of LSD in the study area. Materials and Methods: A total of 634 cattle were observed during the study period. Data were collected using a well-prepared questionnaire through face-to-face interviews conducted in Chuadanga Sadar Upazila, Bangladesh, from August 7, 2022, to October 6, 2022. Results: The prevalence of LSD was 22.24% with variations observed between indigenous (51.77%) and cross-bred cattle (48.23%). The overall LSD mortality was 7%. Cross-breed male cattle showed a higher prevalence of LSD (57.35%) in comparison to cross-breed female-cattle (42.65%). The LSD prevalence was relatively higher in age-group > 6 months than other age groups. The average duration of illness varied among indigenous and cross-bred cattle. Indigenous cattle showed a longer average illness duration (6.79 days) compared to cross-breed cattle (5.5 days). The highest prevalence was observed in cattle aged up to 30 days (4.4%), with indigenous cattle accounting for 43% and cross-bred cattle for 57%. Conclusion: The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the prevalence, mortality, and demographic distribution of LSD in cattle at Chuadanga Sadar Upazila. The results offer a foundation for developing targeted interventions to control and manage LSD, thereby safeguarding cattle production in the region. Specifically, to optimize LSD vaccination strategies, it is recommended to prioritize indigenous cattle and male cross-bred due to their elevated susceptibility. Furthermore, particular emphasis should be placed on cattle aged below one month, with a specific focus on prioritizing treatment for male cross-bred to effectively mitigate the risk of fatalities.