No Cases of Bovine Dermatosis Detected in Luxembourg, Authorities Confirm

Veterinary experts remain vigilant as France battles lumpy skin disease outbreak
By Morgan Kervestin Luxembourg — 22 October 2025

Luxembourg’s cattle herds remain free of bovine dermatosis, also known as lumpy skin disease, according to the Veterinary and Food Administration (ALVA). While neighbouring France enforces strict containment measures, no infections have been detected among the 180,000 cattle in the Grand Duchy.

Dr Carlo Dahm, head of ALVA’s Animal Health and Welfare Division, confirmed that Luxembourg’s livestock are safe for now.
“Fortunately, there are still no cases. We had some suspicions two months ago when the first outbreaks appeared in Italy, but all tests turned out negative,” said Dr Dahm.

No Risk to Consumers
Lumpy skin disease, a viral infection transmitted by biting insects, causes fever, appetite loss, and nodular skin lesions in cattle. While the illness can lead to production losses in milk and meat, experts emphasize that it poses no threat to humans.

“For the consumer, there is no danger. The disease cannot be transmitted through products, animals, or flies,” Dr Dahm reassured.

Vaccines Ready — But Preventive Use Restricted
Although vaccines have been stockpiled, preventive vaccination is currently prohibited under EU law, which only allows immunization when an outbreak occurs or is deemed imminent.

“We’ve already signed contracts to ensure vaccine availability if needed,” explained Dahm. “But we can only use them with authorization from the European Commission.”

The disease, categorized as Class A under European animal health legislation, is considered highly contagious, requiring strict containment protocols similar to those for foot-and-mouth disease or swine fever.

Hopes on the Cold Season
As colder temperatures approach, experts are optimistic that reduced fly activity will limit disease transmission.

“We’re hopeful the cold season will help stop vector circulation,” said Dahm. “At the same time, we continue monitoring animal movements from infected regions.”

France Suspends Exports Amid Outbreak
Meanwhile, France—where the disease has spread across three regions—has suspended exports of live cattle until October 31. Nearly 2,000 animals have been culled since June.
The FNSEA, France’s largest agricultural union, has criticized the government’s decision, calling the export ban “a measure taken without consultation” and urging officials to reconsider.

For now, Luxembourg remains unaffected but alert, with health authorities maintaining enhanced surveillance to protect the nation’s livestock from the advancing epidemic.
Read More : Bovine dermatosis: no cases in Luxembourg | The Daily

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