Host/Virus Interaction

Transmission of FMD

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Contaminated Fomites

All material contaminated with excretions or secretions from infected animals can be carried to the environment of susceptible animals. This material may introduce virus into the skin or mucous membranes, e.g., via brushes and surgical instruments, or into food, e.g., via faeces, urine and contaminated fodder. Infected aerosols, e.g., slurry spray, may be produced from contaminated fomites.

Humans can carry FMD virus on hands, particularly under fingernails, clothes and boots, and on agricultural machinery and vehicles.

Foxes, dogs, birds and other wild or domesticated animals can carry infected meat or bones to new areas.

Mechanical transmission by insects has never been shown experimentally.

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