06/12/2025
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hooved animals—those with split hooves—such as:
Cattle
Goats
Sheep
Pigs
Buffalo
Some wildlife (e.g., antelopes)
It rarely infects humans, but it spreads extremely fast among animals.
Cause
FMD is caused by the foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV).
There are 7 serotypes of the virus, and they do not give cross-protection — meaning animals can be infected more than once by different strains.
How It Spreads
FMD spreads through:
Direct contact with infected animals (saliva, milk, manure, fluid from blisters)
Aerosols (airborne) over long distances
Contaminated equipment – boots, vehicles, tools
Feed or water
Animal movement and markets
The virus is very strong and can survive for long periods in the environment.
Signs and Symptoms
In Adult Animals
Fever (first sign)
Blisters (vesicles) in the mouth, tongue, gums → causing drooling
Blisters on feet → lameness, reluctance to walk
Drop in milk production
Weight loss
Loss of appetite
In Calves / Young Animals
Severe disease
Heart damage → sudden death (“tiger heart appearance”)
Why It Is Serious
Very highly contagious
Major economic losses due to reduced milk, weight gain, fertility, and trade restrictions
Animals may take long to recover or remain weak
Diagnosis
Clinical signs
Laboratory tests (PCR, virus isolation)
Treatment
There is no direct treatment for the virus.
Management includes:
Isolating infected animals
Supportive care (fluids, soft feeds, wound care)
Antibiotics only to prevent secondary bacterial infections
Prevention & Control
Vaccination (very important in endemic countries like Kenya)
Movement control of animals
Biosecurity – disinfect boots, equipment, and vehicles
Quarantine new animals for 2 weeks
Report outbreaks to veterinary authorities
Key Takeaway
Foot-and-mouth disease is one of the most contagious livestock diseases. While it rarely kills adult animals, it causes major economic damage and spreads very easily. Vaccination and strict biosecurity are the best ways to prevent it.