A potential cattle crisis looms as lumpy skin disease (LSD) makes its way to Bali, Indonesia, but the Australian cattle industry is staying calm and collected.
LSD, a viral disease primarily affecting cattle and buffalo, has been spreading through Indonesia since its initial detection on the island of Sumatra in 2022. Despite Australia's fortunate freedom from this disease and its robust biosecurity measures, the industry is on high alert.
"We're aware of the situation and taking it seriously," says Romy Carey, CEO of the Northern Territory Cattlemen's Association (NTCA). "But we're not panicking. There won't be any immediate financial impacts due to the Bali cases."
Carey emphasizes the need to remain vigilant without succumbing to alarm. "Our protocols and precautions remain unchanged. Any producers concerned about their biosecurity can reach out to us for a review."
Rob Williams, the NT's chief veterinary officer, agrees that while LSD poses a serious threat, Australia's preparedness, especially regarding vaccine rollout plans, makes an outbreak unlikely at this stage.
"Our biosecurity rules for returning tourists from Bali are already stringent," Williams explains. "The disease typically spreads to new locations through the movement of infected animals."
Williams' team at the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is focused on preparedness activities for emergency animal diseases, including early warning systems, surveillance, and vaccination preparation.
"In the unlikely event of an LSD outbreak in Australia, vaccination will be a critical component of our response," he adds.
The detection of LSD in Bali serves as a timely reminder of the importance of strong biosecurity measures to mitigate the risk of livestock diseases like LSD and foot and mouth disease.
"Industry practice dictates that if you've been to an area with foot and mouth disease, you should avoid contact with livestock for seven days," Williams advises. "We ask people to stay off pastoral properties and not come into contact with cattle. It's a conservative measure, but an important one."
A spokesperson for the federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry confirms that the Australian government is in communication with its Indonesian counterparts to better understand the situation in Bali.
"Our strict biosecurity regime has reduced the risk of an LSD outbreak," the spokesperson says. "The Australian government will never compromise on biosecurity. Our biosecurity system is renowned worldwide and is vital in protecting our rural communities, our $100 billion agricultural industries, our economy, and our way of life."
As the situation unfolds, the cattle industry and government authorities continue to monitor the spread of LSD, ensuring Australia's preparedness and biosecurity remain at the forefront.
