04/01/2026
What does FMD cause?
It mainly causes blisters (vesicles) and fever, leading to severe production losses.
Key signs & symptoms
High fever (40–41°C)
Blisters/sores in the mouth, on the tongue, gums, and lips
Excessive salivation (drooling)
Blisters between the hooves → lameness
Reduced milk production
Loss of appetite and weakness
In calves: may cause sudden death due to heart damage
How FMD spreads
Direct contact with infected animals
Through air, contaminated feed, water, equipment, clothing
Very fast spread within herds
Treatment
❌ No specific antiviral treatment ✔ Supportive care:
Antipyretics (to reduce fever)
Antibiotics (to prevent secondary bacterial infection)
Mouth and foot lesion care
Soft feed and clean water
Prevention
Regular vaccination (most effective method)
Strict biosecurity
Quarantine new or sick animals
Disinfection of farm and equipment
Why FMD is serious
Causes heavy economic losses
Rapid spread across farms and regions
Trade restrictions in affected areas
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