An outbreak of leukemia in cattle has been recorded in the Samara region: causes, consequences and precautions

Bovine leukemia is a chronic infectious disease of tumor nature caused by a virus that is transmitted through blood, saliva and MILK , which makes the disease especially dangerous in conditions of keeping a large number of animals. Often the infection is asymptomatic, which complicates its diagnosis and treatment .

The main factors that contribute to the spread of leukemia include:

1. Social structure of herds: the virus is easily transmitted in large groups of animals.
2. Lack of veterinary control: the lack of regular monitoring of animal HEALTH makes it difficult to promptly identify and isolate sick animals.
3. Use of uncertified drugs: use of low-quality vaccines and medications.

In view of the outbreak identified, veterinary services recommend the following precautions:

• Immediately isolate sick animals and examine them.
• Ban the EXPORT and sale of infected livestock to prevent further spread of the virus.
• To educate farmers and smallholding owners about the symptoms of the disease and the rules for handling animals.

Although there are currently no confirmed cases of leukemia transmission from animals to humans, experts advise avoiding the consumption of MEAT from affected animals, as it can negatively affect human health even without direct infection. The outbreak of leukemia in the region highlights the importance of veterinary safety and maintaining animal health to protect the public.