Bharat Biotech's group company, Biovet, has received approval from the Central Drug Standards Control Organization (CDSCO) for its new vaccine, Biolumpivaxin. This vaccine is the world's first and only one that can tell the difference between cattle that are vaccinated and those that are naturally infected with lumpy skin disease (LSD).
Biolumpivaxin is a breakthrough vaccine that is safe and effective for dairy cattle and buffaloes. It has been tested for quality, safety, and effectiveness at trusted research institutes like ICAR-NRCE and the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI).
The vaccine was developed using the LSD virus strain from ICAR-NRCE in Hisar, with help from Biovet's scientists. After three years of research, the vaccine is ready for use. Dr. Krishna Ella, Biovet's founder, called the vaccine a "game-changer" for fighting animal diseases, helping workers know whether an animal was vaccinated or naturally infected with LSD.
This new vaccine is important for India’s veterinary healthcare as it helps reduce dependence on foreign vaccines. It will also play a key role in improving the country’s livestock health and ensuring the dairy industry stays strong.
Lumpy skin disease has caused major problems in India, killing around 200,000 cattle and affecting milk production. Biolumpivaxin will soon be available to help protect against this disease. Biovet’s plant in Karnataka can produce up to 500 million doses of the vaccine each year.
The vaccine is easy to store and only needs to be given once a year to cattle and buffaloes over 3 months old. With this new vaccine, India is one step closer to eliminating LSD and protecting its livestock.
History of Lumpy Skin Disease
Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) was first found in Zambia, Africa, in 1929. For many years, it stayed only in Africa. Then, in 1988, it reached Egypt, and in 1989, it spread to Israel. Over time, the disease spread further, affecting parts of the Middle East, Europe, and many Asian countries, including India.
India saw its first confirmed outbreak in 2019. Since then, the disease has spread quickly across different states, causing big economic losses and reducing milk production.
How to Control LSD
Vaccination is the best way to control LSD, especially using vaccines made specifically for this disease. When cattle and buffaloes are vaccinated, their immune systems learn to fight the virus. However, it takes about three to four weeks for the animals to build full immunity. That’s why it is important to vaccinate them in advance. This helps protect dairy animals of all ages before the disease spreads.