At a Glance - Foot and Mouth Disease and Public Health.

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral (Aphthovirus) disease of cloven hoof animals, such as cattle and swine that is particularly prevalent in many countries. The disease is characterized by fever and blister- like sores on the mouth, teats, and feet ¹ ². FMD may affect humans, although it is quite rare and in humans the disease is mild. Only 40 patients have been seen in the past century². Transmission to humans is not clear, but all cases have been in close contact with infected animals or drinking raw milk from infected cows. FMD in animals is not related to the human condition of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (Coxsackie virus)¹ ².

Reference for At a Glance - Foot and Mouth Disease and Public Health.

1. Canadian Food and Inspection Agency. 2002 Animal Health- Fact Sheet - Foot and Mouth Disease. www.inspection.gc.ca/english/anima/heasan/disemala/inf_e.shtml
2. Communication Disease Surveillance and Response (CSR) Foot and mouth disease: consequences for public health. www.who.int/emc/diseases/zoo/FMD.html

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