foot-and-mouth disease
1 of 1nouna contagious viral disease in cloven-hoofed animals, causing fever, mouth, and foot blisters, leading to economic losses
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious infection that affects animals with split hooves, such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats. It is caused by the foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV), which spreads through direct contact with infected animals, contaminated equipment, or virus particles carried in the air. Symptoms include fever, blisters or wounds on the mouth, tongue, and hooves, excessive salivation, and difficulty in walking. FMD can lead to large economic losses because of reduced milk production, weight loss, and restrictions on the movement and trade of affected animals and animal products. Prevention involves maintaining strict hygiene, vaccination, and immediate control of outbreaks.
- Strict biosecurity protocols during FMD outbreaks prevent further transmission.
- The vet confirmed FMD in the herd based on characteristic clinical signs.
- Vaccination helps prevent foot-and-mouth disease in susceptible regions.
- Import and export controls prevent the introduction of FMD across borders.
- a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak caused significant economic losses in the cattle industry.