FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE VACCINE Strains: (A, O, ASI

It is an infectious viral disease of cloven footed animals characterized by high fever and vesicle formation in oral cavity and on feet and teats. This disease is known throughout the world due to economic loses. In terms of economic loses it is one of the most important diseases of livestock by drastic fall in meat and milk production. Death in adult animal is rare; more in young animals and affected females become infertile for long periods. Pure exotic breeds and cross bred animals that have been recovered from FMD start panting and become useless for farmers in case of transport or other work. After recovery the production of animal decreases. Type A, type C, type Asia 1, and type O of virus have been identified in Pakistan. The antigenic difference among various types and sub types is the main problem in the control of the disease. So regular typing and sub typing of virus should be done and field strains should be added into vaccine. Mostly cattle and exotic breeds are susceptible. Mouth lesions are more severe in cattle and foot lesions are more severe in buffalo.