We have had no outbreaks since 1929, and having met the standards of management and surveillance required by the OIE, are classified as a totally FMD free country. A risk analysis assessment of the country was carried out just two years ago, with the assistance of PAHO and the Government of Argentina, and our status was reaffirmed. Clearly our accessibility to the world's export markets will hinge heavily upon certifications of this sort. Foot and Mouth Disease is a highly infectious disease, caused by a 'picorna' virus, for which seven FMD varieties have been recognised. It may infect cows, sheep, goats and pigs, as well as a few non-domestic species, not typically found in Jamaica.
Young animals are particularly susceptible, and many die.
There are rare reports that humans can become affected, but these are doubtful. Infected animals develop a fever, and may shiver, grind their teeth and produce excess saliva. Characteristic blister-like vesicles develop in the mouth and nose area, between claws, and maybe in the area of the udders. Milk production is severely diminished or stopped, sometimes permanently, in infected animals, so that infected animals, in addition to being agents for spreading the disease, may become under productive. Recovery is usually within 8-15 days.