Treating Foot and Mouth Disease Lesions

Caring for Foot Lesions

The lesions on the feet can cause severe lameness, making it difficult for animals to stand or walk, which affects their ability to feed. Proper care of foot lesions is vital:

• Cleanliness: Regularly clean the affected hooves and interdigital spaces (between the toes) with clean water to remove mud, dung, and debris. This should be done gently to avoid causing more pain.
• Antiseptic Application: After cleaning, apply a mild antiseptic solution. Common options include a weak solution of potassium permanganate (1:1000 dilution, light pink colour) or povidone-iodine solution. These help to disinfect the wounds and prevent bacterial growth.
• Pain Relief: For severe pain, consult a veterinarian who may prescribe pain-relieving medications (NSAIDs - Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) to make the animal more comfortable and encourage eating.
• Dry Bedding: Keep the animals in a clean, dry, and soft bedding area. This prevents further irritation and contamination of the foot lesions, promoting faster healing.
• Fly Control: Use fly repellents or wound dressings to protect open sores from flies, which can lay eggs and cause maggot infestation.

Managing Mouth Lesions

Mouth lesions, including blisters and ulcers on the tongue, gums, and inside of the cheeks, make eating and drinking extremely painful, leading to rapid weight loss and dehydration.

• Gentle Cleaning: Gently clean the mouth lesions with a mild antiseptic solution. A solution of alum (fitkari) in water or a boroglycerine solution can be applied to the ulcers to soothe them and aid healing.
• Soft Feed: Provide soft, palatable, and easily digestible feed. Examples include green fodder, gruel (a thin porridge made from grains), or soaked concentrates. Avoid rough or dry fodder that can further irritate the mouth.
• Hydration: Ensure constant access to fresh, clean water. If the animal is reluctant to drink due to pain, offer water mixed with jaggery or electrolytes to encourage intake and prevent dehydration.
• Antibiotics (if prescribed): If there are signs of secondary bacterial infection in the mouth (e.g., pus, foul smell), a veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics.

General Supportive Care

Beyond local lesion treatment, overall supportive care is critical for an animal's recovery from FMD.

• Isolation: Immediately isolate affected animals from healthy ones to prevent the spread of the highly contagious virus.
• Nutrition: Even with mouth lesions, try to ensure the animal receives adequate nutrition. High-energy feeds and vitamin supplements can boost immunity and aid recovery.
• Stress Reduction: Minimize stress by providing a calm and comfortable environment.
• Veterinary Consultation: Always consult a local veterinarian for accurate diagnosis, treatment plans, and prescription medications, especially for severe cases or complications.

Preventing Future Outbreaks

While treating existing lesions is important, preventing FMD is paramount. Regular vaccination of all susceptible animals is the most effective way to control the disease. Strict biosecurity measures, including limiting contact with new animals, disinfecting premises, and controlling movement of animals, also play a crucial role in preventing outbreaks.

In summary, treating Foot and Mouth Disease lesions involves meticulous hygiene, regular application of antiseptics to both foot and mouth sores, and providing soft, nutritious feed and ample water. Always work closely with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and to ensure the best possible care for your affected animals, focusing on pain relief and preventing secondary infections for a quicker recovery.