FMD Overview
Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting domesticated and wild cloven-hoofed animals, causing significant economic losses.
Etiological Agent
Foot and Mouth Disease Virus (FMDV), a member of the Picornaviridae family.
Species Affected
- Species Affected: Cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, and pigs. The disease is more severe in cattle and pigs.
Clinical Signs
- Fever
- Loss of feed intake
- Drop in milk production
- Drooling of saliva like a ropey string
- Vesicles on the tongue, lips, gums, and palate, which eventually rupture
- Vesicles in interdigital skin and coronary band of the feet
- Characteristic smacking sound due to mouth pain
- Sheep and goats may show lameness
- Pigs may develop lesions on the snout and feet
Preventive Measures
- Regular vaccination and seromonitoring
- Disinfection with 4% sodium carbonate or 10% washing soda
- Strict biosecurity measures
- Control of animal movement
Photos
