‘Lumpy skin’ disease in cattle in parts of Odisha prompts China to ban imports

News:The Chinese Government has issued warnings against import of cattle from India after India submitted lumpy skin disease virus in cattle to the World Organization of Animal Health(OIE).

Facts:

About Lumpy Skin disease:

• Lumpy Skin disease is an infectious disease in cattle that reduces milk production, causes infertility, poor growth and chronic debility. 
• The disease is caused by the virus Poxviridae. The virus is also called the Neethling virus. 
• The disease causes permanent damage to the skin of the animals and hence has great economic implications.

Additional information:

About OIE:

• The World Organisation for Animal Health(OIE) is an intergovernmental organisation responsible for improving animal health worldwide.
• It was created by the International Agreement of 25 January 1924 signed by 28 countries.In 2018,the OIE consists of 182  Member Countries and Territories.
• The OIE’s financial resources are derived principally from regular annual contributions backed up by voluntary contributions from Member Countries.
• It is also recognised as a reference organisation by the World Trade Organization(WTO).