Patna: The outbreak of lumpy skin disease in cattle has resurfaced in Bihar, with cases reported in several districts despite a government-led vaccination campaign earlier this year.
Farmers have expressed concern that the virus, which had seen a decline after a state-wide immunisation drive two months ago, is once again infecting calves and young heifers.
Manoj, a cattle breeder from Jamui, said his one-year-old calf had received the vaccine on time but developed symptoms around 10 days ago. “She had high fever and stopped eating, but with treatment her condition has improved,” he said. Rahul, another farmer from Samastipur, reported a similar experience.
The disease, which is caused by a virus, spreads quickly among cattle. Initial symptoms include fever and loss of appetite, followed by the development of hard nodules on the skin that later burst, leading to swelling in the limbs. Veterinary experts warn that poor hygiene and contact with infected animals remain the main drivers of transmission.
Officials have urged farmers to immediately bring infected cattle to government veterinary hospitals rather than relying solely on home remedies. Some traditional practices, such as washing animals with boiled neem water and feeding herbal pastes made from betel leaves, pepper and jaggery, continue to be used by breeders as supportive care.
