Abstract
Background:
Cattle are naturally susceptible to the viral disease lumpy skin disease (LSD), which has become a significant concern for the livestock industry in Libya since its first emergence in 2023. Originating from Africa, it rapidly spread across the country, facilitated by the movement of animals both within Libya and from neighboring regions.

Aim:
This investigation determined the molecular features and the phylogenetic analysis of LSD virus (LSDV) isolated from cattle from Al-Zawiya, Western Libya.

Methods:
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on 14 collected samples. Real-time PCR was employed to detect and amplify specific viral DNA sequences, confirming the presence and identifying the genetic profile of LSDV.

Results:
Results confirmed the presence of LSDV in 13 of 14 samples, with subsequent sequencing revealing distinct genetic markers characteristic of the virus strains in Libya. The findings also revealed that the LSDV responsible for these outbreaks is closely related to LSDV Sudan/06-Obied_GU119938, LSDV Egypt/89-Ismalia_GU119947, and LSDV Serbia/Buj/2016_KY702007. Additionally, genetic analysis revealed that the Libyan LSDV strain is unique among all LSDV isolates due to an additional single -nucleotide polymorphism at position 111 (C→A), which may affect the efficacy of immunization efforts to control the disease.

Conclusion:
This study serves as a valuable resource for understanding the genetic characteristics of LSDV in Libya and may assist in selecting the most appropriate vaccine strain for disease control.

Key words: Lumpy skin disease, PCR, Sequence, Outbreak, Libya