Roundtable gathering to discuss risk of Lumpy Skin Disease

The State Government convened a meeting of industry leaders and other stakeholders in Brisbane today to ensure Queensland remains best prepared to address the risk of Lumpy skin disease in cattle.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said while the disease had been confirmed in livestock in Indonesia there was no sign of it in Australia.

“We are working hard in coordination with the federal government, other states and territories, industry and veterinarians to have measures in place to manage the risks,” Mr Furner said.

“Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a highly infectious skin disease of cattle and water buffalo, which is transmitted by biting insects.

“Cattle with this disease can develop large skin growths over much of their body, which makes the animal very unwell and sometimes leads to death.

“The disease impacts production through emaciation, decreased milk production, damaged hides, and reproductive losses, and it could jeopardise our market access. Animals that recover can remain in extremely poor condition for some time.

“Australia is free of Lumpy Skin Disease. We want to keep it that way, which is why we’re holding this Roundtable today and hearing about the latest surveillance, prevention and preparedness measures.”

More information is available here https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/farms-fishing-forestry/agriculture/livestock/animal-welfare/pests-diseases-disorders/lumpy-skin-disease

Beef and dairy producers need to be aware of the signs of LSD, and immediately report anything suspicious to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888.

ENDS

Media contact:           Fidelis Rego                0403 707 547