The Department of Veterinary Services wishes to inform livestock farmers that we have been experiencing increasing incidence of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in cattle. The situation is expected to worsen due to the current and forecasted heavy rains. Farmers are therefore strongly advised to vaccinate their cattle against lumpy skin disease. With  advice from veterinary extension agents or veterinarians tetracycline or sulphonomide based drugs may be used on infected animals to treat for opportunistic bacterial infection. Currently Livestock Advisory Centers (LAC) do not have LSD vaccine, terramycin and sulphur, therefore farmers are advised to buy from licensed private outlets.

Lumpy skin disease is a viral disease of cattle transmitted by biting flies. The disease is characterized by skin lumps, loss of appetite, weakness  and swelling of both legs and underside of the chest, abdomen and neck area. Some cases might show respiratory distress characterized by extended neck, rapid and abdominal breathing and outward extension of the front legs. Some infected cattle   might die from the disease.

Still on animal disease issues the Republic of South Africa recently reported cases of Rift Valley Fever (RVF) in cattle. The re-emergence of RVF in RSA coupled with the current climatic conditions are favourable risk factors for re-emergence of Rift Valley Fever in Botswana. Therefore farmers in Kgatleng, South east districts and Goodhope sub district are to be vigilant and advised to vaccinate their livestock against Rift Valley Fever.

Farmers  are further advised to be vigilant for lumpy skin disease and rift valley fever and report any suspicious cases to the nearest veterinary extension agent.