Lumpy Skin Disease Returns to Europe: Outbreaks, Impacts, and Urgent Measures
In the summer of 2025, Europe has been confronted with a resurgence of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) —a highly contagious viral disease affecting cattle and other ruminants. For the first time, Italy and France have reported confirmed outbreaks, prompting swift action from veterinary authorities and international health organizations https://wahis.woah.org/ (accessed 27th July, 2025) What Is Lumpy Skin Disease? LSD is caused by a capripoxvirus and is primarily transmitted through biting insects such as mosquitoes and flies. While it poses no risk to human health, its impact on animal welfare and agricultural economies is severe. Infected animals suffer from fever, nodular skin lesions, swollen lymph nodes, and in some cases, death. The disease also leads to reduced milk production, weight loss, and reproductive issues , making it a major threat to livestock productivity The 2025 Outbreaks: A New Front in Europe The World Organisation for An...
