Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, pigs, deer and camelids.
Australia is currently free from Foot and Mouth Disease. An outbreak in Australia would have significant impacts on animal health, livestock production and Australia's agricultural trade.
Foot and Mouth Disease does not affect people and is not the same disease as hand, foot and mouth disease in children.
How does Foot and Mouth Disease spread?
FMD spreads very easily between susceptible animals and can be transmitted through infected animals and contaminated materials.
It can spread through:
- direct contact between infected and susceptible animals
- contaminated feed and water
- animal transport vehicles
- equipment
- clothing and footwear
- contaminated animal products and other materials.
The virus can also spread through airborne particles between animals in close contact.
What are the signs?
Signs of Foot and Mouth Disease can include:
- fever
- drooling or excessive salivation
- reluctance to move
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- a drop in milk production
- blisters on the mouth, snout, tongue or lips
- blisters between and above the hooves
- blisters or lesions on the feet or teats.
Blisters may rupture, leaving raw and painful tissue.
What should you do if you suspect Foot and Mouth Disease?
Foot and Mouth Disease is a nationally notifiable animal disease.
If you suspect an animal may have Foot and Mouth Disease, report it immediately by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Do not move potentially affected animals unnecessarily and follow the instructions of animal health authorities.
Early detection and reporting are important to help protect Australia's livestock industries and prevent the spread of disease.
More information
For the latest information about Foot and Mouth Disease, including Australia's disease status, current risks, signs and reporting requirements, visit the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry website.