Published on Friday, 2 September 2022 at 3:16:24 PM
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed (two toed) animals including cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, camels, llamas and alpacas. FMD is one of Australia’s greatest biosecurity risks – an outbreak of the virus would have severe consequences for Australia’s livestock industries, animal health and trade.
FMD has not been detected in Australia but it was reported in cattle in Indonesia earlier this year and is now present in a number of Indonesian provinces, including Bali.
Anyone that owns livestock or works in livestock industries should be alert to the signs of FMD, such as blisters in and around the mouth/snout area. Blisters can also occur over the udder and teats and on the feet. Other common signs include excessive salivation, lame animals and reduced production.
If you suspect disease in your livestock, immediately call your local veterinarian or the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Travellers returning to Australia from countries with FMD need to be aware of the biosecurity requirements in place when returning to Australia. It is recommended that people who have been in contact with cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, camels, llamas and alpacas or infected areas DO NOT visit Australian farms or handle livestock for at least 7 days after returning to Australia.
For more information about FMD:
DPIRD webpage: https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/livestock-biosecurity/foot-and-mouth-disease-recognise-and-report-signs
Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment webpage: https://www.awe.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/pests-diseases-weeds/animal/fmd
DPIRD Animal Biosecurity Contacts: https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/livestock-biosecurity/animal-biosecurity-welfare-program-contacts-western-australia
Sign up for the regular DPIRD email update: https://confirmsubscription.com/h/j/422E918B5863BE78
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