Epidemiological Assessment of Bovine Foot and Mouth Disease in different Sized Herds and among Species and Breed in Tamil Nadu, India

The dairy industry encounters substantial challenges due to livestock diseases that pose a threat to farmers' livelihood, food security and economy. Among the bovine diseases, Foot and Mouth disease (FMD) is most contagious and economically important. Epidemiological survey was conducted among dairy farmers and the results indicated that the prevalence of FMD was more in large herds (6.58%) followed by medium (6.32%) and small herds (5.55%).The mortality rates were more in large herds (1.15%) than medium (0.91%), and small herds (0.85%). Case Fatality Rate (CFR) was higher in large herds (16.92%) compared to medium (14.03%) and small herds (12.50%).However, the prevalence, mortality and CFR did not vary significantly (P>.05) between different herd sizes. Among breeds, the prevalence of FMD was high in indigenous cattle (8.63%) followed by crossbreds (6.32%) and buffaloes (3.09%) and the difference was significant (χ2=9.04; P=.01). The mortality rate was higher in crossbreds (1.42%) compared to indigenous breeds (0.45%) but non-significant (P>.05). Notably, the CFR was significantly higher (Fischer’s exact=5.531; P=.02) in crossbreds (22.61%) than in indigenous breeds (5.26%). To avoid sporadic incidences, it is essential to enhance vaccination coverage, biosecurity measures, farmers’ awareness, treatment facilities, movement restrictions and quarantine practices.