Touseef Wani
GANDERBAL, SEPTEMBER 3: Concerns have mounted among livestock owners in several villages of Shallabugh area of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district following reports of a suspected outbreak of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) among cattle.
Local residents have claimed that more than 350 cattle have developed symptoms suspected to be linked to the viral disease. They have further alleged that nearly 20 cattle have died, although the reported fatalities have not been independently verified.
According to residents, the situation has caused anxiety among cattle owners, particularly those whose animals are showing signs of illness. They said that cattle in the area had previously been vaccinated during an earlier outbreak, but the emergence of fresh suspected cases has raised questions about the possible recurrence of the disease.
A local resident, Bilal Ahmad, said that the reported number of affected cattle has crossed 350, urging the concerned authorities to take immediate preventive measures and closely monitor the livestock population.
In response to the reports, veterinary teams from the Animal Husbandry Department have reached the affected areas.
The teams are examining the animals and collecting information to determine the nature and extent of the suspected infection.
Officials are also expected to verify the number of affected and deceased animals and establish whether the reported cases are actually caused by Lumpy Skin Disease or another illness.
Authorities have advised livestock owners to remain vigilant and seek veterinary assistance for animals showing symptoms, while further measures are likely to be taken after the assessment by the veterinary teams.
The situation remains under observation as the department works to determine the exact cause of the reported illness and prevent its possible spread to other livestock in the area.
