Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus
Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus (FMDV) is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects cloven-hoofed animals, such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats. It causes fever and painful sores in the mouth and on the feet, leading to significant economic losses in livestock industries. The virus spreads easily through direct contact, contaminated equipment, and even through the air over short distances.
FMDV is classified into seven serotypes, which can complicate vaccination efforts. Control measures often include vaccination, movement restrictions, and culling infected animals. Outbreaks can have severe impacts on agriculture and trade, making animal health monitoring crucial for prevention.