ISOLATION AND MOLECULAR DETECTION OF LUMPY SKIN DISEASE VIRUS FROM OUTBREAK CASES IN BALE ZONE, OROMIA REGION, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) is a transboundary viral disease of cattle that has rapidly spread from Africa to Europe and Asia, causing significant economic losses. This study aimed to isolate and molecularly detect the Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV) in three selected districts of the Bale zone, Ethiopia, and assess associated risk factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to July 2024 in purposively selected districts. A total of 227 cattle from outbreak areas were examined, of which 13 showed clinical signs of LSD. Additionally, 100 house-holds were surveyed using semi-structured questionnaires to assess knowledge, disease history, and risk factors. Samples collected included skin nodules (n=10), nasal swabs (n=1), and saliva swabs (n=2). Virus isolation was performed using the Vero cell line (P-40), followed by molecular detection via real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Data were analyzed using SPSS 20, employing descriptive statistics and logistic regression. All 13 samples exhibited cytopathic effects (CPE) consistent with LSDV, and real-time PCR confirmed their positivity. The study revealed morbidity, mortality, and case fatality rates of 5.7%, 1.32%, and 23.08%, respectively. Logistic regression identified key risk factors, including lack of vaccination (AOR: 7.46, p = 0.001), introduction of new animals (AOR: 6.146, p = 0.003), and communal watering points (AOR: 6.394, p = 0.027). The study confirmed the presence of LSDV with high case fatality rates in the Bale zone, driven by factors such as unvaccinated herds, new animal introductions, and shared watering sources. Effective disease management, continuous surveillance, and advanced molecular research, such as genome sequencing, are crucial to mitigate the economic impact of LSD, improve outbreak control, and enhance vaccine development.