Sardinia livestock facing economic strain from Lumpy Skin Disease

Outbreaks of Lumpy Skin Disease (bovine contagious nodular dermatitis) in Sardinia are causing significant economic strain on the regional livestock sector due to restrictions on animal movement and sales.

In Samugheo, the outbreak is considered under control following the culling of the infected herd. However, an active outbreak in Escalaplano remains a major point of contention. Unlike the Samugheo case, the farmer in Escalaplano has filed an appeal against the depopulation of cattle on the farm. A ruling from the Regional Administrative Court (TAR) is expected as early as the beginning of autumn.

Confagricoltura Sardegna has expressed urgent concern regarding the financial stability of hundreds of livestock businesses. While veterinary services appear to have the epidemiological situation under control, the ban on moving and selling cattle is increasing costs for farmers. Maintaining animals on-site leads to rising expenses for feed and forage, while preventing the sale of calves to fattening centers on the mainland. Stefano Taras, president of Confagricoltura Sardegna, questioned whether the court's timeline is compatible with the survival of the local agricultural economy, noting that farmers are already struggling with high costs for fuel and feed.