Seroprevalence and risk factors for lumpy skin disease in cattle in Northern Egypt

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is an endemic infectious viral disease of cattle in African and Middle East countries. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of LSD among cattle in Northern Egypt and assessed the associated risk factors with LSD infection. A total of 1000 sera samples were collected from cattle and examined serologically with commercial ELISA kit. Overall, the true seroprevalence of LSD among cattle in Egypt was 19.5% (n=180). The true seroprevalence rate was varied significantly between different geographical studied areas, and the highest level was observed in Kafr El-Sheikh (26.7%) and Gharbia (23.7%) governorates. Moreover, the risk of getting LSD infection was increased among Holstein breed (OR=4.586; 95%CI, 1.83-11.48) and adult cattle (OR=2.498; 95%CI, 1.17-5.32) during summer season (OR=7.303, 95%CI: 3.97-13.42). Furthermore, communal grazing (OR=1.546; 95%CI, 0.91-2.60), communal water points (OR=3.283; 95%CI, 2.11-5.09), introduction of new animal (OR=2.216; 95%CI, 1.32-3.71), and contact with other animals (OR=3.401; 95%CI, 1.62-7.10) were identified as significant risk factors for the occurrence of LSDV infection in cattle. Moreover, the present study revealed that no significant (P>0.05) association between sex or type of herd and occurrence of LSD infection.

Automated summary

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a viral disease endemic in cattle in African and Middle East countries. A study in Northern Egypt found a true seroprevalence rate of 19.5%, with higher rates in certain provinces. Factors associated with increased risk of LSD infection included breed, age, and season. Communal grazing, communal water points, introducing new animals, and contact with other animals were also significant risk factors. No significant association was found between sex or type of herd and LSD infection.