Often blisters may not be observed because they easily rupture, leading to erosions. Ruptured vesicles discharge either clear or cloudy fluid and leave raw, eroded areas surrounded by ragged fragments of loose tissue. Sticky, foamy, stringy saliva is produced. Consumption of feed is reduced because of painful tongue and mouth lesions. Lameness with reluctance to move is often observed.
Abortions often occur.
Milk flow of infected cows drops abruptly. Conception rates may be low. Meat animals do not normally regain lost weight for many months. Recovered cows seldom produce milk at their former rates. Various types of FMD virus have been identified in Africa, South America, Asia, and part of Europe.