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New Delhi– The Central Drug Standards Control Organization (CDSCO) has granted a license for Biolumpivaxin, India’s first vaccine against lumpy skin disease (LSD) in dairy cattle and buffaloes. Bharat Biotech group company Biovet made the announcement on Monday.
Biolumpivaxin is a novel indigenous live-attenuated marker vaccine developed using the LSD virus/Ranchi/2019 vaccine strain. The research and development for this vaccine were carried out by the Indian Council of Agriculture Research-National Research Centre on Equines (ICAR-NRCE), Hisar. The vaccine aims to provide effective protection against LSD, a contagious viral disease that severely affects livestock, leading to economic losses in the dairy and meat industries.
The technology behind Biolumpivaxin was commercialized to at least four vaccine manufacturers in 2022, including Bengaluru-based Biovet. With the CDSCO license, the vaccine is now set for wider production and distribution, offering hope to farmers and the livestock industry.
Lumpy skin disease, caused by the capripoxvirus, spreads through insect vectors such as mosquitoes and ticks. It leads to fever, skin nodules, reduced milk production, and, in severe cases, death. India has witnessed significant outbreaks of LSD in recent years, affecting thousands of cattle and causing economic distress to farmers. The approval of Biolumpivaxin marks a crucial step in controlling the spread of the disease.
The vaccine’s approval highlights India’s growing capabilities in veterinary research and vaccine development. Experts believe that large-scale immunization programs will be key to managing LSD outbreaks and safeguarding the nation’s livestock sector.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to consult veterinary professionals for specific guidance on vaccination and livestock health management.
