The Untold Story: The Intertwining History Of Foot And Mouth Disease In Britain

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) has long plagued the agricultural industry in Britain, leaving a deep imprint on the nation's history. This devastating disease has not only impacted the livestock but has also caused significant economic and social upheaval. In this article, we delve into the origins, consequences, and ongoing efforts to control FMD in Britain.

The Origins of Foot and Mouth Disease

Foot and Mouth Disease, also known as Aphthae epizooticae, can be traced back centuries ago. The first recorded outbreak in Britain dates back to the 17th century, although it is widely believed that FMD has been present in the country long before that.

The disease is highly contagious and affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, and pigs. It is caused by a viral infection transmitted through respiratory secretions, contaminated materials, or direct contact with infected animals. The telltale symptoms include fever, blisters, lameness, and loss of appetite.

A Manufactured Plague: The History of Foot-and-mouth Disease in Britain

by Abigail Woods (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3374 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	240 pages

FREE

Impact on the Agricultural Industry

The outbreak of FMD can have devastating consequences for the agricultural industry. In addition to the immediate loss of infected animals, FMD leads to a halt in trade as movement restrictions are put in place to prevent the spread of the disease. This disruption in the supply chain disrupts the entire livestock market, causing financial losses for farmers, auctioneers, and meat processors.

The government plays a crucial role in managing FMD outbreaks, implementing control measures such as culling infected animals, rigorous biosecurity measures, and movement restrictions to contain the disease. However, these actions are not without controversy, as they often instigate emotional debates surrounding animal welfare and ethical concerns.

Historical Outbreaks and Economic Consequences

Throughout history, Britain has faced multiple FMD outbreaks, each leaving a lasting impact on both the rural and urban communities. The 1967 outbreak stands out as one of the most devastating events of the 20th century. It led to the culling of over 400,000 animals and caused immense economic losses totaling over £350 million at the time.

Even more recent outbreaks in 2001 and 2007 have highlighted the vulnerability of Britain's farming industry. The 2001 outbreak resulted in the culling of over six million animals, and the overall economic impact surpassed £8 billion. These outbreaks not only affected farmers but also had substantial ripple effects on tourism, rural businesses, and the nation's psyche.

The Battle Against Foot and Mouth Disease

Over the years, great strides have been made in combating FMD. Vaccination programs, improved surveillance systems, and advancements in diagnostic techniques have significantly contributed to controlling the disease. This proactive approach has resulted in rapid containment of outbreaks and reduced transmission rates.

International collaboration has played a significant role in knowledge sharing and outbreak prevention. Organizations such as the OIE (World Organisation for Animal Health) and DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) work hand in hand with British farmers, veterinarians, and researchers to enhance surveillance systems, develop effective vaccines, and improve crisis management strategies.

The Importance of Biosecurity

One crucial aspect in fighting FMD is maintaining strict biosecurity measures. Farmers have adopted various practices to minimize the risk of disease transmission, including disinfection protocols, restricted access to farms, and surveillance programs. These measures not only protect the animals but also serve as a safeguard against other livestock diseases and potential outbreaks in the future.

Foot and Mouth Disease remains an ever-present threat to the British agricultural sector. The history of FMD in Britain is one of resilience, hardships, and continuous efforts to control and prevent outbreaks. By understanding the origins, economic consequences, and the importance of maintaining effective control measures, we can hope for a future free from the devastating impact of this disease. It is our collective responsibility to preserve the health of both animals and our agricultural industry for generations to come.

A Manufactured Plague: The History of Foot-and-mouth Disease in Britain

by Abigail Woods (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3374 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	240 pages

FREE

Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is currently regarded as one of the world's worst animal plagues. But how did this label become attached to a curable disease that poses little threat to human health? And why, in the epidemic of 2001, did the government's control strategy still rely upon Victorian trade restrictions and mass slaughter?

This groundbreaking and well-researched book shows that, for over a century, FMD has brought fear, tragedy and sorrow- damaging businesses and affecting international relations. Yet these effects were neither inevitable nor caused by FMD itself but were, rather, the product of the legislation used to control it, and in this sense FMD is a 'manufactured' plague rather than a natural one.

A Manufactured Plague turns the spotlight on this process of manufacture, revealing a rich history beset by controversy, in which party politics, class relations, veterinary ambitions, agricultural practices, the priorities of farming and the meat trade, fears for national security and scientific progress all made FMD what it is today.