F𝗼𝗼𝘁-𝗮𝗻𝗱-𝗠𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 (𝗙𝗠𝗗) 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀
FMD is a serious disease that spreads easily in livestock. It is caused by a virus found in all body fluids such as saliva, urine, faeces, milk and in the air that is breathed out by all infected animals. The incubation period is between 2 – 14 days, while at this time, animals can appear healthy but still be infectious.
FMD is a controlled animal disease in terms of the Animal Diseases Act, 1984 (Act No 35 of 1984). Any suspicious clinical symptoms (salivation, blisters in the mouth, limping or hoof lesions) must be reported to the local State Veterinarian immediately and such animals must not be moved under any circumstances. The Act prescribes certain control measures, like isolation and movement control, that are being enforced by Veterinary Services.
