Foot-and-mouth disease information for veterinarians

Foot-and-mouth disease is prohibited matter under the Biosecurity Act 2014.

FMD outbreaks are common in Asia, the Middle East, South America and parts of Africa. In May 2022, an outbreak of FMD was reported in cattle in Indonesia and in July 2022 in Bali.

International outbreaks are a reminder that animal diseases can spread quickly and do not respect international borders.

FMD is not present in Australia. In the event of an outbreak early detection and reporting would be critical to rapidly contain this disease.

Be vigilant and look for signs of foot-and-mouth disease in livestock.

Under Queensland legislation, if you suspect the presence of this disease in any species of animal, you must report it to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or contact the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious animal disease that would have a severe impact on both the livestock industry and the Australian economy should an outbreak occur.

Australia is currently free from FMD. Veterinarians play a key role in recognising and reporting suspected cases of FMD.

This guide:

  • provides an overview of FMD
  • describes the clinical signs of FMD and how to diagnose it (including photo galleries by species)
  • explains how to report and respond to suspected cases of FMD
  • outlines ways to prevent FMD.