Govt advises against consuming, selling  milk, meat of infected cattle

SHILLONG:

The animal husbandry and veterinary department on Sunday said meat and milk of cattle infected by the lumpy skin disease should not be consumed and should not be sold.

“Lumpy skin disease does not transmit to human being. However, the meat and milk of the infected cattle should not be consumed and should not be sold,” secretary to the department Dr Manjunatha C said.

He said the lumpy skin disease is a viral disease in cattle, and spreads through bites of mosquitos, flies and ticks. It is characterised by formation of nodules on the skin all over the body. The infected animals often recover within a period of 2-3 weeks.

On the bio-security measures, the department said that the farmers should isolate infected animals from healthy ones.

Farmers have been requested to contact rapid response teams of veterinary department by calling helpline number for disinfection of affected premises and treatment of infected animals.

Persons dealing with infected animals should wear gloves and face masks.

Movement of person to and from affected cattle shed should be restricted.

Mosquitos, flies in cattle sheds should be controlled by application of mosquito repellent.

In case of death of cattle, carcass should be disposed by deep burial method.

Cattle markets within 10 km radius of epicenter should be closed.

With regard to vaccination, the department said that all the healthy animals, including calf of more than 4 months and above age,  in 5 km radius around infected area shall be vaccinated to prevent spread of LSD.

Vaccination camps are being organised and farmers can call helpline number for date and time of vaccination camps in nearby villages.

Vaccination can protect the animal and prevent death of animal.

Further, the department informed that the treatment will be given to infected animals with anti- inflammatory drugs, antihistaminic, antibiotics, immunity booster and trophical application of ointments.

Infected animals will recover with treatment and reduce mortality of cattle.

Farmers are requested to call  the helpline number for treatment of infected animals.

Mobile veterinary clinic will be sent to affected villages for treatment and disinfection.

Meanwhile, the department has also set up helpline numbers and requested farmers to contact the district wise helpline number for treatment, vaccination and other information related to control of the LSD.