Foot-and-mouth disease : Transmission , Symptoms , Control and Prevention , Global Status

 Foot-and-mouth disease : -

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats. It is caused by the foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV), which belongs to the Picornaviridae family. FMD is not considered a direct threat to human health, but it can have devastating economic consequences for the livestock industry due to its impact on animal health and trade restrictions.

Transmission:

FMD is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected animals, their secretions, or contaminated materials such as feed, equipment, or vehicles. The virus can also spread through the air over short distances, especially in the case of pigs. Infected animals can shed the virus for several days before showing visible symptoms, which makes the disease difficult to control.

Symptoms :-

The symptoms of FMD can vary depending on the species of animal affected, but common signs include:

• Fever

• Vesicles (fluid-filled blisters) and erosions on the tongue, mouth, gums, lips, and between the hooves.

• Lameness and reluctance to move.

• Drooling of saliva.

• Decreased appetite and weight loss.

• Milk production decrease in dairy cattle.

• The severity of symptoms can range from mild to severe, and the disease can result in high morbidity rates, affecting a large proportion of the population, but usually has a low mortality rate, except in young animals.

Control and Prevention:

Control and prevention of FMD involve a combination of measures, including:

• Vaccination: Vaccines are available for different serotypes of FMDV. However, due to the many strains and variations of the virus, vaccines need to be matched to the specific circulating strain to be effective.

• Biosecurity measures: Strict biosecurity practices, such as controlling animal movement, disinfection of premises, and quarantine procedures, are crucial in preventing the introduction and spread of the virus.

• Surveillance and early detection: Regular monitoring of livestock populations and prompt reporting of suspected cases to veterinary authorities enable quick response and control measures.

• Slaughter and disposal: In the event of an outbreak, infected and exposed animals may need to be culled to prevent the spread of the virus. Proper disposal methods, such as burial or incineration, are essential to prevent environmental contamination

 •     Trade restrictions: International trade of livestock and animal products is heavily impacted during               FMD outbreaks. Countries often impose restrictions on importing from affected regions to prevent the introduction of the virus.

• It is important to note that FMD is a notifiable disease, meaning that it must be reported to veterinary authorities when suspected or confirmed cases are identified.

Global Status:

FMD is present in many parts of the world, with varying degrees of control. Outbreaks can occur sporadically, and the disease can rapidly spread across regions or even countries if not properly contained. Several countries have implemented stringent surveillance and control measures to maintain their FMD-free status, while others may have endemic or recurring outbreaks

Overall, FMD poses significant economic challenges to the livestock industry, with the cost of control measures, loss of animals, and trade restrictions. Efforts continue to improve vaccination strategies, diagnostics, and surveillance systems to better control and prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease.