26/07/2024
Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in cattle is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats. Here are some key points about FMD in cattle:
*Causes:*
- FMD is caused by a virus of the genus Aphthovirus, which has seven distinct serotypes (O, A, C, Asia-1, SAT-1, SAT-2, and SAT-3).
*Symptoms:*
- High fever
- Blisters or vesicles on the feet, mouth, and teats
- Salivation and drooling
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Reduced milk production
*Transmission:*
- Direct contact with infected animals
- Contaminated feed, water, and equipment
- Humans can spread the virus through contact with infected animals or contaminated materials
*Prevention and Control:*
- Vaccination
- Biosecurity measures (e.g., quarantine, disinfection)
- Movement restrictions
- Slaughter of infected animals
*Economic Impact:*
- FMD can have significant economic consequences due to:
- Loss of productivity
- Reduced market access
- Costs associated with control and eradication efforts
*Global Distribution:*
- FMD is found in many parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and South America.
- Some countries, like the United States, have been FMD-free for decades, while others, like the United Kingdom, have experienced sporadic outbreaks.