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Vets urged to be vigilant for lumpy skin disease
cows
LSD was detected in the European Union for the first time last August, when Greece reported two outbreaks.
Early recognition is 'imperative'
 
Vets are being urged to look out for skin wheals and unexplained abortions in cattle this summer and autumn, as these could be early signs of lumpy skin disease (LSD).

Once confined to Africa, LSD was detected in the European Union for the first time last August, when Greece reported two outbreaks.

More than 100 further outbreaks occurred between September and December 2015 and the disease reappeared in April of this year. Almost simultaneously, it was found in a second EU country, Bulgaria, and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.

Professor Kenton Morgan, from the University of Liverpool, wrote in Veterinary Record (Vol 178 No 20) letters: 'Early recognition is imperative in limiting the impact of novel or exotic diseases.

'Where clinical signs are easily visible, as is the case with LSD, there is a need for those who regularly observe cattle… to be vigilant for the appearance of skin wheals or lumps. Skin wheals, whether palpable or visible, and unexplained abortions should trigger the addition of LSD to the list of differential diagnoses. Look out also for swelling in the legs and lymph nodes.'

The transmission of LSD is not well understood, making it difficult to assess the risk of spread, Prof Morgan added. Vaccination is a major control strategy.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA announces 12th Edition of the Small Animal Formulary

The BSAVA has published an updated edition of its Small Animal Formulary, which includes new drug monographs and emergency drug doses for rabbits, rodents, birds and reptiles.

One of BSAVA's most trusted and widely used clinical resources, this 12th edition of the manual also includes seven new client information leaflets and information on drugs used for the management of urinary incontinence.

Part A of the Formulary, Canine and Feline, sees Fergus Allerton return as Editor-in-Chief, while Part B: Exotic Pets was edited by Joanna Hedley. For more information, visit the BSAVA website.