Historically FMD had essentially a worldwide distribution. In modern times it has been eradicated from most developed parts of the world, and is now prevalent only in some parts of Africa, South America, Middle East and south-east Asia.
Saliva contains the highest concentrations.
The air over infected piggeries contains many infected aerosols. Recovered animals may remain symptomless carriers of the virus, e.g. some cattle for as long as 3 years, and in the African buffalo for even longer periods. Copyright 2000 University of Pretoria. All rights reserved.