THIS refers to the breakout of the lumpy skin disease (LSD) in cattle which has affected livestock in Karachi and elsewhere in Sindh. I have not yet heard of any steps taken to control the spread either by the provincial or the federal health authorities which I find very disturbing. Besides, the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) should also come forward and tell the masses about what, if anything, the people need to do or avoid.

The public is not yet fully aware of the seriousness or otherwise of the disease regarding the consumption of milk and meat. The eateries and milk/meat sellers are doing their business as if nothing has happened. We need to be sure if this is the right approach.

The relevant authorities and the PMA should act proactively and tell the public whether or not it is safe to consume beef and milk under the prevailing circumstances.

One hopes that the situation will improve soon, but it helps to know what is safe and what is not, and what is being done about it.

Akber D. Vazir
Karachi

Published in Dawn, March 20th, 2022