FMD is an endemic disease in several countries worldwide. It is caused by an aphthovirus of the family Picornaviridae and there are seven immunologically distinct FMDV serotypes (A, O, C, SAT1, SAT2, SAT3 and Asia1). Each serotype may contain a number of virus strains which may require the use of different vaccine formulations to provide immunity.

FMD is endemic in most African countries and the Middle East, in several parts of Asia and in very limited areas of South America. Countries currently free of FMD are under constant threat of an incursion due to the transboundary condition of the disease, outbreaks in which can occur sporadically.

FMD is recognised by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH, founded as OIE) as a transmissible disease that is potentially serious and rapidly spread. Foot and Mouth disease has severe socio-economic consequences as livestock productivity is seriously affected. This viral infection costs Africa approximately US$2.3bn per year in economic losses, and both regional and international trade of animals and animal products are compromised and disrupted.

The clinical signs depend on many different factors such as the strain of the virus, the age and species of the animal, and the exposure dose.

Typically, the animal affected presents ulcers and wounds in the mouth and feet, causing hypersalivation and lameness. Specifically blisters can appear on the nose, lips, tongue, inside the mouth, between the toes, above the hooves, on the teats and at pressure points on the skin. Other frequent symptoms are fever, loss of appetite and weight, growth retardation and heavy losses in milk production. In young animals sudden death can be seen.

FMD morbidity levels are very high, reaching 100% in susceptible populations. Mortality is generally low in adult animals.

FMD is estimated to circulate in 77% of the global livestock population, according to the WOAH.

The virus is found in secretions and excretions of infected animals and can be present in milk and semen for up to four days before the animal shows symptoms. An infection may occur via the respiratory, or oral routes, or through contact with contaminated infrastructure and equipment.

Animals recovered from the disease may still carry the virus and are considered as potential sources of infection for new outbreaks.

The FMD virus is highly contagious and outbreaks of disease must be reported, movement restricted and control measures employed to avoid spread. Warning systems, early detection and effective surveillance are essential.

Best practice for livestock owners and producers in case of an FMD outbreak is to carry out regular cleaning and disinfection of equipment, buildings and vehicles. Maintaining safe biosecurity practices and monitoring and reporting possible illness is fundamental to the early diagnosis and control of FMD.

For further information, view our FMD product development work.

AgResults Foot and Mouth Disease Vaccine Challenge Project

New AgResults Project to Encourage FMD Vaccine Development and Uptake in Eastern Africa

GALVmed to manage multimillion-dollar AgResults Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) Vaccine Challenge Project

Optimising procedure management for marketing authorisation of veterinary medicines in Eastern Africa

Developing a Public Private Partnership Framework for FMD in Eastern Africa

Contributing to the Sustainable Supply and Delivery of Foot and Mouth Disease Vaccine in Eastern Africa

Impact of Foot and Mouth Disease on small-scale producers and the hope for better solutions

Reflections on how Public-Private Partnerships can address FMD in Eastern Africa

A Step Forward with FMD Public-Private Partnerships in Eastern Africa

The Impact of Foot and Mouth Disease in Eastern Africa

Smallholder farmers: ‘We need a game changer in the fight against Foot and Mouth Disease’