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Preventing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is far more critical than treating it, as it is one of the most serious infectious diseases affecting cloven-hoofed animals. Known as "Disease No. 5," FMD is a highly contagious viral infection that affects cattle, sheep, pigs, camels, and deer. It not only causes severe economic losses in pig farming but also has zoonotic potential, posing risks to human health.
The primary symptoms in pigs include blisters and ulcers on the feet, mouth, snout, tongue, and even on the udders of sows. Affected pigs often show signs of lethargy, fever, and loss of appetite. When the virus attacks the hooves, the temperature rises, leading to lameness and, in severe cases, hoof deformation or detachment. Infected animals, whether showing symptoms or in the incubation period, are the main sources of transmission.
The virus spreads easily through the air, dust, vesicle fluid, saliva, milk, feces, urine, semen, and contaminated materials such as feed, bedding, and clothing. Infected people or objects can also carry the virus over long distances. In some cases, the virus can travel up to 50-100 kilometers via wind, making prevention the most effective strategy.
One of the best ways to prevent FMD is by maintaining a clean and healthy environment for pigs. The Kinpo Fermentation Bed system helps achieve this by keeping the pigpen dry, warm, and well-ventilated. This reduces the survival time of the virus in the environment and minimizes the risk of disease spread.
In terms of treatment, the FMD virus is sensitive to strong acids and bases. It can be instantly inactivated in environments with pH levels of 5 or 9. Therefore, using caustic soda solutions can help disinfect affected areas. The virus is also vulnerable to heat—exposure to 60°C for 15 minutes or 70°C for 10 minutes can inactivate it. The internal temperature of the fermentation bed can reach 60°C, which effectively kills the virus. Ultraviolet light and ionizing radiation are also effective against the virus.
However, the virus is resistant to many common disinfectants, including proteases, DNA enzymes, lipid solvents, and protein denaturants. Phenol, alcohol, and chloroform are not effective in killing the FMD virus. Therefore, it's crucial to use appropriate and targeted methods for both prevention and control.
By combining proper biosecurity measures with advanced environmental management systems like the fermentation bed, farmers can significantly reduce the risk of FMD outbreaks and protect their livestock from this devastating disease.
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