It spreads more quickly in cold conditions so winter is a more dangerous time. Foot and Mouth Disease broke out in the UK and parts of Europe in 2001. The disease already exists in parts of Asia, Africa, the Middle East and South America. The disease affects sheep, cattle, pigs, deer, goats and other animals with cloven hooves. It gives them blisters on the feet and mouth, as well as soft tissue like udders.
Animals can also develop a fever and become lame.
The milk yield from cows with Foot and Mouth significantly reduces. Sheep and cattle grown for their wool and meat lose weight. Although animals will eventually recover, the disease keeps spreading to uninfected animals. There is no cure for Foot and Mouth Disease. Slaughter of animals is the only practical way to control the spread of the virus in countries like New Zealand that depend on farming for much of their income.