UK Braces for Foot and Mouth Epidemic

Just when I was struggling for something to write about it appears that foot and mouth disease (FMD) is back in the UK. The latest outbreak was confirmed at a Surrey farm this evening. DEFRA has been very quick to implement a 3 km protection zone and 10 km surveillance zone around the farm in question.


The outbreak is sure to bring back memories of the 2001 outbreak in the north of England. Back then it was dubious hygiene in a pig finishing unit at Hedon on the Wall in Northumberland. The 2001 virus spread quickly and some 2030 cases were reported. A total of 6 million animals were culled trying to bring the disease to a standstill. A report by the Royal Society, Britain's premier independent scientific knowledge base, estimated the financial loss to the food chain and agriculture as being £3.1 billion. A futher £2.5 billion was paid by the Government towards compensation and clean up costs.

The disease itself spreads from animal to animal by either direct contact, in a shared field or pen for example, or indirectly via contact with exhaled air, urine, faeces or milk. Cows, sheep and pigs can be infected with the virus. The main symptoms are blistering of the animal's tongue, lips and feet (see below), sudden lameness and the animal may want to lie down more than usual.

The early signs of blistering on the tongue of a cow.
Within a day or two the blisters may redden and burst.

An early blister on the hoove of a cow.

Increased biosecurity measures will help to prevent the spread of the disease. It's probably best to keep well away from livestock and agricultural land and premises if you can. If you work with cattle, sheep or pigs be sure to keep your equipment, boots and clothing spotlessly clean with disinfectant. Visitors should also take suitable precautions to guard against cross contamination.

Signs of the disease must be reported to DEFRA at the earliest opportunity.