Zoran Popovski, head of the Food and Veterinary Agency, informed that a case of lumpy skin disease was identified in an animal near Demir Kapija. Popovski said that the disease is not dangerous to humans, but has the potential of causing significant damage to the cattle farms.
"This disease is not typical to our region. It is spread by vectors, such as insect bites, and can cause major economic damage. The infected animal and all other animals that were in contact with it were destroyed, and we have set up three protective zones, in radius of three, 10 and 50 kilometers. We are banning the movement of farm animals, holding farm fairs and use of milk and meat from the region in the industry. Incubation period lasts between two to three weeks and farmers should warn us immediately if they notice elevated temperature, mood changes and other symptoms in their animals", Popovski said.
The disease is usually registered in Africa, but there have been recent outbreaks in Turkey, Greece and Bulgaria.