What is the Foot and Mouth Disease?
Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is a highly contagious illness in cloven-hoofed animals, caused by an Aphthovirus that exists in seven serotypes. The disease is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or their fluids, contaminated objects, and animal products, and can occasionally spread via wind. FMD’s virus is notably resilient, persisting in cool, moist environments - which facilitates its rapid transmission among susceptible livestock populations.
What are the effects?
FMD imposes significant economic burdens on livestock producers by sharply reducing meat and milk yields, diminishing overall animal performance, and triggering trade restrictions that can block access to export markets. Outbreaks lead to severe operational disruptions, including movement bans, mandatory culling, and increased expenditure on biosecurity measures, all of which combine to erode farm profitability and threaten the sustainability of affected operations.
How can it be prevented?
Key prevention measures for FMD include maintaining strict biosecurity, thorough cleaning and disinfection, controlling animal movements, enforcing quarantine, and implementing vaccination programs. Together, these strategies significantly reduce the risk of outbreaks and help safeguard livestock operations.
Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is a highly contagious illness in cloven-hoofed animals, caused by an Aphthovirus that exists in seven serotypes. The disease is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or their fluids, contaminated objects, and animal products, and can occasionally spread via wind. FMD’s virus is notably resilient, persisting in cool, moist environments - which facilitates its rapid transmission among susceptible livestock populations.
What are the effects?
FMD imposes significant economic burdens on livestock producers by sharply reducing meat and milk yields, diminishing overall animal performance, and triggering trade restrictions that can block access to export markets. Outbreaks lead to severe operational disruptions, including movement bans, mandatory culling, and increased expenditure on biosecurity measures, all of which combine to erode farm profitability and threaten the sustainability of affected operations.
How can it be prevented?
Key prevention measures for FMD include maintaining strict biosecurity, thorough cleaning and disinfection, controlling animal movements, enforcing quarantine, and implementing vaccination programs. Together, these strategies significantly reduce the risk of outbreaks and help safeguard livestock operations.
Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use. Approved applications and uses vary by region and country. For up to date information, please contact your local LANXESS representative.
