The Department of Veterinary Services has recorded an increase in reported cases of tick-borne diseases affecting livestock. The latest reports from the department show that there has been an alarming rise in cases of lumpy skin disease.

The highest number of cases have been reported in Mashonaland West - particularly Zvimba, Chegutu and Sanyati.

The disease has also affected livestock in Beitbridge and Zvishavane.

Lumpy skin disease affects cattle and can produce a chronic debility in infected animals comparable to that caused by foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).

The latest reports indicate a rise of over 75 percent in reported cases within one week from 618 cases to 1 112. The same week also recorded 121 deaths. Veterinary Services chief epidemiologist Dr Martin Sibanda said although mortality rates resulting from lumpy skin disease were very low, the number of cases being reported was alarming.