Lumpy skin disease takes toll on milk production in Dhading

KATHMANDU: The lumpy skin disease has had a significant impact on milk production in Dhading district. Farmers in the district have reported a decline in milk output following the infection of their cattle.

According to data released by the Veterinary Hospital and Livestock Service Expert Center in Dhading, milk production has decreased by up to 30%. Before the outbreak of lumpy skin disease, the district was producing 114 tons of milk daily.

The decline in milk production, along with the death of cattle due to the disease, has severely affected dairy farmers. According to the center, approximately 8,000 cattle in the district have been affected by lumpy skin disease. About 70% of them are lactating cattle. The impact on cows is greater compared to oxen.

Ishu Tamang, a livestock technician from Nikanatha Municipality, stated, “Although all cattle are affected, the lactating ones are the most affected. Since many farmers rely on dairy farming for their livelihood, this has had severe consequences.”

Lumpy skin disease was first detected in the district three months ago, and its prevalence has been rapidly increasing.