25 February 2022
Who does this notice affect?
This notice is relevant to all vessel masters and shipping agents who represent international commercial and non-commercial vessels for the purposes of Australian biosecurity clearance.
What has changed?
In 2019 lumpy skin disease was reported for the first time in Bangladesh, China and India. In 2020 there were reports of it in Taiwan, Nepal, Vietnam, Bhutan, Hong Kong and Myanmar. In 2021, outbreaks occurred in Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia.
The presence and likely further spread of the disease in our region means that the threat to Australia remains heightened.
Vessels, and the goods and people they convey, present potential pathways for this disease, including through contamination and hitchhiker pests as vectors.
Lumpy skin disease has never been reported in Australia but if the virus was introduced, it would have the potential to cause significant national consequences through impacts to international trade and production losses for affected agricultural industries.
To limit potential biosecurity risks and associated impacts to Australia, all vessels should continue to be managed strictly in accordance with Australia's requirements. This includes measures specific to certain conveyances such as returning livestock vessels.
Further information
It is critical that the existing requirements for cleaning, disinfection and disinsection of conveyances be strictly adhered to. Livestock carriers in particular should be thoroughly cleaned of organic material and disinfected and disinsected in accordance with current requirements. The removal of organic matter is of particular importance as it can harbor lumpy skin disease virus and potentially protect viable virus from subsequent disinfection.
Vessel masters and shipping agents are reminded:
- To read and understand the Biosecurity Status Document (BSD) directions and conditions and keep a copy of the current document on board the vessel for the duration of the voyage
- That a failure to report accurately or comply with a requirement under the Biosecurity Act may result in penalties, including infringement notices, civil penalties or criminal prosecutions.
For more information on lumpy skin disease visit: Emergency Animal Disease Bulletin No. 121
If you require further information, please contact conveyance.maritime@aff.gov.au
Background
Lumpy skin disease, caused by a virus, has serious animal production implications including emaciation, decreased milk production, damaged hides and reproductive losses. While signs of disease may not be noticeable in some infected animals, in some cases it can kill the animal.
The disease is primarily spread by biting flies, mosquitoes and possibly ticks.
In addition to these insects, the movement of infected animals or contaminated products and equipment, can result in the disease spreading into new areas.
Once present it can be challenging and costly to control or eradicate.
The virus is susceptible to several disinfectants and lipid solvent detergents.
There are no reported cases of the virus causing disease in humans.
Lumpy skin disease is also established in the Middle East, South-East Europe, Kazakhstan and Russia.