Foot-and-mouth disease

What is it?

Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cows, sheep, goats and pigs. It causes painful lesions in the mouth and on the feet. This disease is closely monitored because it can have a major economic impact on livestock farming.

Commonly observed signs

These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.

Causes and risk factors

This disease is caused by a virus belonging to the Picornaviridae family, known for its high capacity for mutation. There are several different serotypes of the virus, making immune protection difficult from one animal to another. The virus resists well in the environment, particularly in organic matter.

Farms with a high density of animals and frequent commercial exchanges are more exposed. The lack of hygiene measures and border controls favors the spread. Areas where vaccination is not regularly practiced are also at increased risk.

Transmission

The virus is transmitted very easily by direct contact between animals, through the air over short distances, or through contaminated objects such as equipment, vehicles or clothing. It can also be spread through contaminated food, water or animal products. The disease does not affect humans.

Diagnosis and care

Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.

Prevention

References

WOAH — Organisation mondiale de la santé animale (ex-OIE)

Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 18 August 2026