Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is a severe, highly contagious viral disease of livestock that has a significant economic impact. The disease affects cattle,buffalo, swine, sheep, goats and other cloven-hoofed ruminants.

FMD is caused by an Aphthovirus of the family Picornaviridae, seven strains (A, O, C, SAT1, SAT2, SAT3, and Asia1) are endemic in different countries worldwide.

Type O is the most prevalent worldwide. Vaccination against one serotype of FMDV does not cross-protect against the other serotypes. Within a serotype, vaccination against one strain may not cross-protect against other strains, depending on the antigenic similarity of the strains.

FMD virus (FMDV) consists of a single-stranded, plus-sense RNA genome of approximately 8,500 bases surrounded by four structural proteins to form an icosahedral capsid ।FMDV is the type species of the Aphthovirus genus of the Picornaviridae family.

FMD is endemic in Nepal causing substantial economic losses to livestock industry mainly cattle and buffalo, directly by decreasing the production and change in herd structure, and indirectly losses by cost of FMD control.

Serotype O and A are the current circulating strain of FMD virus in Nepal

The ideal sample for the diagnosis of FMD Virus are:

• Fresh swab and tissue samples from around the mouth, tongue, gums, and hooves, as well as fluid from blisters around the mouth.
• Serum (in the late stage of the disease)
• Lymph nodes, spleen, heart, etc. from a dead animal.

• Several vaccines are available to protect animals against FMD. The vaccines protect animals from clinical illness, reduces viral shed and slows the spread of the disease.
• Vaccination schedule of FMD;

FMD vaccine should be stored at a temperature of +2°C to +8°C.

FMD vaccines provide immunity for about 6-8 months. Therefore, bi-annual (every 6 months) vaccination is usually recommended to maintain effective protection.