Kathmandu: The rapid and uncontrolled spread of lumpy skin disease in Bhaktapur district has resulted in a devastating toll on livestock, raising concerns among officials at the Veterinary Hospital and Livestock Service Centre.
The outbreak has already claimed the lives of 586 cattle in the region, with the worst-hit area being Changunarayan Municipality, where a staggering 514 cattle have succumbed to the disease, as reported by Chief of Livestock Service Section, Khadak Kumar Mainali.
Changunarayan Municipality, which heavily relies on animal husbandry as a common occupation, is experiencing the most severe impact compared to other local areas in the district.
The scale of the disease outbreak is alarming, with 1,136 cattle already infected, and approximately 5,600 others showing signs of being affected.
To combat the outbreak, authorities in the municipality have taken action by purchasing 1,500 doses of vaccines. These vaccines were promptly administered to cattle through a rigorous on-site vaccination campaign, wherein health workers visited every farmer’s cowshed.
Despite these efforts, the situation remains critical as the outbreak continues to escalate. Local authorities and veterinary experts are closely monitoring the situation, trying to control the spread of the disease and prevent further losses in the region’s vital livestock population.
