One million doses of lumpy skin disease (LSD) vaccines have now been provided to Indonesia by the Federal Government, as the fight to protect our cattle industry from disease ramps up again in 2024.
The final shipment of the Lumpyvax vaccines arrived in Indonesia late last month.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said aiding control of LSD in the region was a priority.
“LSD and foot-and-mouth disease remain significant threats to the biosecurity of Australia and our neighbours,” Minister Watt said.
“As a result, it is imperative that we do everything we can to support Indonesia as they work to get this outbreak under control.
“Over the course of this year, we have supplied 1 million vaccines to our neighbours in Indonesia – vaccines that are now finding their way into Indonesia’s cattle population and protecting farmers’ livelihoods.
“Previous shipments have already been supplied to the Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture.”
Minister Watt said LSD is spread by mosquitos, biting flies and ticks, and severely affects cattle and water buffalo.
“It affects milk production and produces sores all over the bodies of infected animals. It can also seriously hamper trade.
“Given that Australia’s beef exports are forecast to be worth over $10 billion and live cattle exports over $1 billion this financial year, it’s vital that we protect our livestock industries.
“I must stress that Australia has never experienced an outbreak of LSD and remains free from this disease.
“It’s important that we work together with our neighbours to get this disease under control, while also taking steps to make sure we keep Australia safe and LSD-free.”
For more information, visit Lumpy skin disease - DAFF (agriculture.gov.au).
What are the signs of LSD?
Affected cattle can develop a fever of up to 41.5oC and may also have watery eyes, nasal discharge and excess salivation (drooling).
Within 1–2 days, raised nodules up to 50mm in diameter commonly appear around the head, neck, limbs and genitals and may cover the entire body. Scabs form on these nodules and may fall off, leaving large holes in the hide that can become infected.
The brisket and legs may appear swollen and cattle may look lame or be very reluctant to move.
