What is foot and mouth disease?

Foot and mouth disease is an infectious viral disease that primarily affects livestock, including cattle, sheep, pigs, and goats. It is caused by the foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV), which belongs to the Picornaviridae family. The disease is characterized by the development of vesicles and sores in the mouth and on the feet of infected animals, leading to significant pain and reluctance to eat or move. While it doesn't typically affect humans, it is highly contagious among animals and can have severe economic impacts on the agricultural industry due to its ability to spread rapidly and the strict trade restrictions that often follow outbreaks.

This understanding is crucial for peace officers and other first responders, who may encounter situations where foot and mouth disease is a concern, especially in agricultural areas or during disease control efforts. Knowledge of the disease helps in appropriately managing and mitigating any potential public health implications associated with outbreaks in livestock populations.