Foot and Mouth Disease
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Posted by Judy Arbique Aug 7, 2007 |
Officials in the United Kingdom were congratulated on their prompt response to an outbreak of foot and mouth disease in cattle at a farm southwest of London. The source of the outbreak was traced to a nearby vaccine production facility owned by the government’s Institute for Animal Health and Merial Animal Health Ltd., a private research company cooperated by Merck and Sanofi-Aventis.
The foot and mouth disease outbreak confirmed on August 3, 2007 has resulted in an export ban on all livestock cows, sheep and pigs), fresh meat and dairy products, and the culling of 120 cattle.
The source of virus transmission has not been determined. Institute Director Martin Shirley indicated they were not aware of any procedural breaches that could have resulted in foot and mouth virus release and transmission to animals at the nearby farm.
Foot and mouth disease is one of the most contagious viral infections that affects animals, primarily cattle and pigs. Foot and mouth disease is characterized by fever and sores on the tongue, lips, mouth, teats and feet between the hooves. Wildlife (deer, elk and bison) could also become infected, providing a reservoir for the virus.
Foot and mouth diseae is reportable under Health of Animals Regulations.
Many animals recover but foot and mouth disease leaves those infected weak and debilitated. Production losses in livestock could be severe.
Foot and mouth virus rarely causes disease in humans and is generally characterized by a mild rash. Humans can spread the virus from uninfected animals to infected animals on hands, clothing, footwear and contaminated equipment.
Foot and mouth disease is not the same as hand, foot and mouth disease that occurs in humans.
Interesting facts:
- Foot and mouth disease is not the same as hand, foot and mouth disease that occurs in humans.
- Foot and mouth disease does not affect horses.
- Foot in mouth disease often affects politicians!
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