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Protect your farm from foot and mouth disease
Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is a nightmare for every dairy-, calf-, goat- or pigfarmer. On average, the signs are more severe in cattle and intensively reared pigs than in sheep and goats. New preventive measures have been in place since January 2025 due to the finding in Germany of FMD.
In this article you will read what exactly FMD is, how it spreads, what symptoms you recognize and - more importantly - what you can do to protect your farm. View our tested and registered products against FMD here.
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What is foot and mouth disease?
Foot and mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cows, pigs and goats. It is caused by a virus that primarily causes damage in the mouth, on the legs and around the claws of animals. Animals with FMD may develop blisters and wounds (in the mouth and on udders), leading to pain, fever and loss of appetite.
Although the virus is dangerous to animals, fortunately it does not pose a significant risk to humans. Nevertheless, the disease has been designated a notifiable animal disease. An outbreak can lead to strict measures, such as transport bans and even culling of animals.
How does foot and mouth disease spread?
The FMD virus spreads very fast. It is found in saliva, mucus, urine, manure and milk from infected animals. A single infection can be enough to infect an entire barn.
One of the main route of dispersion is through the air (and the particulate matter in it). In this way, the virus can spread over several kilometers.
You and your employees can also - unintentionally - contribute to the spread. For example, through clothing, boots, hands or tools. Even vehicles driving to and from the farm pose a risk. That's why hygiene on your farm is vital.
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What are the symptoms of foot and mouth disease?
Recognizing FMD begins with observing your animals. Pay particular attention to:
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- Blisters and wounds in the mouth or tongue
- Difficulty eating or chewing
- Blisters and wounds on teats
- Reduced milk production
- Blisters and wounds on claws or between legs
- Fever and lethargy
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How can you protect your animals from foot and mouth disease?
Hygiene is your best weapon against FMD. Maintaining good biosecurity on your farm is important to keeping the virus at bay. Limit the number of visitors. Ensure that staff follow strict hygiene protocols, such as wearing clean clothing and footwear and using disinfecting mats and hand-washing stations. Clean all vehicles and machinery thoroughly before they enter the premises, paying close attention to tires and wheels. Isolate new animals from the herd for a few weeks to minimize the risk of disease transmission. Additionally, make it a routine to disinfect stables and equipment regularly with a tested and registered disinfectant like MS Megades Novo & MS MegaDes Oxy.
The 3 steps to prevent spreading by visitors
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Require a check-in for visitors
All visitors and suppliers are required to register upon arrival for approval before entering the property.:format(webp))
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Frequently asked questions about foot and mouth disease
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