The Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus (FMDV), known as foot-and-mouth virus, serotypes O, A, and Asia I, is the etiological agent of Foot-and-Mouth Disease, a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, swine, sheep, and goats. The disease has great sanitary and economic relevance, being responsible for severe restrictions on international trade of animals and animal products.
FMDV belongs to the genus Aphthovirus, family Picornaviridae, and presents seven antigenically distinct serotypes. Among them, serotypes O, A, and Asia I stand out for their wide geographical distribution and epidemiological importance in different regions of the world. The absence of cross-protection between serotypes makes precise identification of the circulating agent essential.
Virus transmission occurs primarily through direct contact between infected and susceptible animals, as well as dissemination through aerosols, secretions, excretions, fomites, and contaminated animal products. FMDV presents high dissemination capacity, especially in areas with high animal density.
Clinically, Foot-and-Mouth Disease is characterized by fever, excessive salivation, lameness, and vesicle formation (aphthae) in the oral cavity, tongue, gums, nostrils, udder, and interdigital region. In young animals, infection can result in high mortality due to myocarditis, even in the absence of evident vesicular lesions.
Foot-and-Mouth Disease control is based on rigorous biosecurity measures, active and passive epidemiological surveillance, animal movement control, and official vaccination programs, when applicable. Immediate notification of suspected cases is mandatory and fundamental for rapid outbreak containment.
Laboratory testing plays a central role in the diagnosis and surveillance of Foot-and-Mouth Disease. Molecular methods, such as real-time PCR, allow for rapid and sensitive detection of the viral genome, as well as differentiation of serotypes O, A, and Asia I, providing essential support for control and eradication actions.
Thus, the integration between precise laboratory diagnosis, continuous epidemiological surveillance, and official health strategies is indispensable for preventing the reintroduction of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus, protecting animal health, and ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of the livestock production chain.
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In this context, the Bioperfectus rapid test for Foot-and-Mouth Disease – FMDV serotypes O, A, and Asia I constitutes a strategic screening tool for immediate support to health surveillance. The use of the rapid test enables agile identification of suspected animals directly in the field, on rural properties, at sanitary barriers, or in zoo-sanitary emergency situations, allowing for immediate implementation of containment measures such as isolation, area quarantine, animal movement restriction, and notification to official veterinary services. Thus, the rapid test complements confirmatory laboratory methods, contributing to early detection of serotypes O, A, and Asia I, reduction of FMDV spread, and strengthening of Foot-and-Mouth Disease control and eradication actions.
