Foot-and-Mouth (FMD) Disease in Livestock: An Essential Guide for Farmers.

Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease that poses a significant threat to livestock worldwide. It is rarely fatal. Understanding the nature of FMD, its transmission, symptoms, and preventive measures is crucial for farmers to protect their herds and prevent outbreaks.

What is FMD?

Foot-and-Mouth Disease is caused by the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus (FMDV), belonging to the Picornaviridae family (member of the genus Apthovirus). The disease is characterized by fever and blisters in the mouth and on the feet, leading to severe economic impacts due to loss of productivity and trade restrictions. There are seven serotypes of FMD virus (FMDV), namely O, A, C, SAT 1, SAT 2, SAT 3, and Asia 1. O is most common worldwide.

It only takes a few virus particles to cause an infection. Remains viable in the environment up to 3 months (6 months in cold areas). Not killed by normal Pasteurization and lives for months in Meat & milk products.

Susceptible hosts: wild (over 70 species) and domesticated cloven-hooved animals. Horses are not susceptible.

Transmission:

FMD spreads through several routes, including:

• Direct Contact: Infected animals can transmit the virus through saliva, mucus, milk, and vesicular fluid.
• Indirect Contact: Contaminated equipment, clothing, feed, and vehicles can carry the virus.
• Airborne Spread: Under certain conditions, the virus can be carried by the wind over long distances. Wind-borne spread of the virus over 250 km is reported.
• Animal Movement: Movement of infected animals can introduce the virus to new areas.
• FMDV carriers: Animals in which the virus can be found for more than 28 days after infection (whether or not they had clinical signs). Most cattle carry FMDV for six months or less, but some can remain persistently infected for up to 3.5 years.

Symptoms of FMD:

•  An acute febrile illness with vesicles(blisters) localized on the feet, in and around the mouth, and on the mammary gland.
  
• Begins with fever – shivering. 
• The development of vesicles in the mouth (the tongue, dental pad, gums, soft palate, nostrils, or muzzle).
• Lameness and reluctance to move.
• Hoof lesions in the interdigital space and on the coronary band.
• Morbidity 100%, mortality less than 1%. Adult livestock do not die from FMD but deaths can occur in young animals.
• Sheep and Goat may be asymptomatic or mild disease.
• In lambs, mortality rates range from 5% to 94%. Death due to heart failure.
• Reduced milk production in dairy animals.
• Weight loss and poor growth in young animals.

Gross lesions:

FMD vesicles are indistinguishable from other vesicular diseases. In the mouth, small fluid-filled

vesicles can coalesce into larger blisters. Vesicles quickly rupture, leaving painful erosion and ulcers. Raw, red areas that may bleed and become covered with a yellowish fibrinous layer. In feet, similar to oral vesicles can be filled with fluid. Lesions on teats are also same, cause pain during milking, and may lead to mastitis.

Cardiac degeneration and necrosis particularly severe in young animals. Including steaking in the myocardium often referred to as “tiger heart” lesions.

Economic Impact:

FMD has a devastating economic impact due to:

• Loss of livestock productivity.
• Increased mortality among young animals and abortions.
• Trade restrictions and loss of export markets.
• Costs of disease control measures, including vaccination.
•  Long-term effects on rural economies.

Preventive Measures:

Vaccination: Vaccination is a key strategy in controlling FMD. Ensure that your livestock are vaccinated according to local veterinary guidelines.

Biosecurity: Implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction and spread of FMD. This includes:

• Disinfecting equipment, vehicles, and footwear.
• Controlling the movement of animals and people on and off the farm.
• Using protective clothing and changing it after contact with livestock.

Monitoring and Surveillance: Regularly monitor your livestock for any signs of FMD. Early detection is crucial for controlling outbreaks.

Isolation: If FMD is suspected, isolate affected animals immediately to prevent the spread to healthy ones.

What to Do in Case of an Outbreak?

Report Immediately: Notify local veterinary authorities if you suspect an FMD outbreak. Early reporting is essential to control the spread.

Implement Quarantine: Quarantine affected and exposed animals to contain the virus.

Follow Guidelines: Adhere to guidelines provided by veterinary authorities, including culling, vaccination, and biosecurity measures.

 Communicate: Keep open lines of communication with neighbors and other farmers to coordinate efforts and share information.

 

Conclusion:

Foot-and-Mouth Disease is a significant threat to livestock health and farm economies. By understanding the disease, its transmission, and preventive measures, farmers can take proactive steps to protect their herds and minimize the impact of outbreaks. Vigilance, proper biosecurity, and cooperation with veterinary authorities are key to managing FMD effectively.

 

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