Biovet, a subsidiary of Bharat Biotech, announced that it has been granted the Central Drug Standards Control Organization (CDSCO) license for its Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) vaccine, Biolumpivaxin. This development follows the collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to produce a vaccine specifically designed for dairy cattle and buffaloes.
Key Highlights of the Development
First Global DIVA Marker Vaccine for LSD
- Global First: Biolumpivaxin is the first Differentiation of Infected from Vaccinated Animals (DIVA) marker vaccine for Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD).
- Innovative Technology: The DIVA marker vaccine enables serological differentiation between naturally infected and vaccinated animals, which is crucial for tracking disease control and prevention.
High Safety and Efficacy Profile
- Safety and Efficacy: The vaccine is designed to offer high safety and efficacy, providing protection against LSD without compromising the health of the animals. This is a significant advancement in veterinary vaccine technology.
Importance for Dairy and Livestock Sector
- Impact on Dairy Cattle and Buffaloes: The vaccine is a significant step forward in combating LSD, which poses a major threat to the dairy and livestock sector in India and globally. The availability of an effective vaccine will help control the spread of the disease and safeguard dairy farming, an essential part of the rural economy.
About Lumpy skin disease (LSD)
It is a viral disease that affects cattle.
Pathogen: It’s caused by the lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV), which is a member of the poxvirus family.
Symptoms
- Fever
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Nodules on the skin, mucous membranes, and internal organs
- Swelling in the limbs
- Lameness
Transmission
- Spread by blood-feeding insects like flies, mosquitoes, and ticks
- Can also be spread through contaminated feed, water, and equipment
Control
- Vaccination is the most effective way to control the disease
- Culling of infected animals
- Thorough cleaning and disinfection of affected premises and vehicles
- Restriction on the movement of animals
Economic impact
- Can lead to decreased milk production, abortions, infertility, and damaged hides
Human impact
- There’s no evidence that LSDV can infect humans