Maseru
The Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition, Mr Thabo Mofosi, has warned of an outbreak of lumpy skin disease, which has been reported in parts of Leribe, Maseru, Botha-Bothe, Mafeteng and Quthing.
In a statement, Mofosi said lumpy skin disease primarily affects cattle and water buffalo, and is caused by a viral infection. He explained that the disease is mainly spread by mosquitoes, which transmit the virus from infected animals to healthy ones, although direct contact can also result in infection, albeit at a lower risk.
The minister noted that the current season, characterised by heat and increased moisture, creates favourable conditions for mosquito breeding, accelerating the spread of livestock diseases. He outlined common symptoms of lumpy skin disease, including skin nodules, excessive salivation, fever, and swelling, among others.
Mofosi said there is no specific cure for the disease, as it is viral in nature. However, affected animals can be treated with supportive medication aimed at boosting the immune system and preventing secondary infections.
He urged farmers to immediately isolate infected cattle, keep them in shaded environments, provide adequate food and water, and refrain from using them for any form of labour.
Farmers were also advised to report suspected cases to Ministry offices or private veterinary clinics as soon as symptoms are observed. Mofosi clarified that treatment for lumpy skin disease is provided at standard veterinary fees, as the Ministry currently subsidises only rabies-related interventions.
“My Ministry intends to work jointly with other stakeholders to combat this disease and will remain alert,” Mofosi said.
Meanwhile, the Ministry is continuing efforts to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease, which was recently reported in South Africa. As a precautionary measure, Lesotho has banned the importation of livestock and unprocessed meat from South Africa.
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What is it?
Lumpy skin disease is a viral infection that mainly affects cattle and water buffalo. It spreads rapidly during warm and wet seasons due to increased mosquito activity.
Common symptoms to watch for
Farmers should immediately check animals for:
• Hard lumps or nodules on the skin
• High fever
• Excessive salivation
• Swelling around the neck, legs, or udder
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness or reluctance to move
How does it spread?
• Mosquito bites from infected animals
• Other biting insects
• Direct contact between animals (less common)
What farmers must do immediately
If you suspect lumpy skin disease:
• Isolate infected cattle from the rest of the herd
• Keep animals in a shaded area
• Provide clean water and sufficient feed
• Do not use infected animals for ploughing or work
• Report cases immediately to:
• Ministry of Agriculture offices
• Private veterinary clinics
