Definition & Meaning of "foot-and-mouth disease"

What is "foot-and-mouth disease"?

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious infection that affects animals with split hooves, such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats. It is caused by the foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV), which spreads through direct contact with infected animals, contaminated equipment, or virus particles carried in the air. Symptoms include fever, blisters or wounds on the mouth, tongue, and hooves, excessive salivation, and difficulty in walking. FMD can lead to large economic losses because of reduced milk production, weight loss, and restrictions on the movement and trade of affected animals and animal products. Prevention involves maintaining strict hygiene, vaccination, and immediate control of outbreaks.