Which signs should raise suspicion for a Foreign Animal Disease (FAD)?

The presence of vesicles and high morbidity/mortality is a strong indicator that a case may involve a Foreign Animal Disease (FAD). Vesicular lesions are associated with several serious diseases, such as foot-and-mouth disease and vesicular stomatitis, which can have devastating effects on livestock populations and significant economic implications. High morbidity and mortality rates further suggest the potential introduction of an infectious disease that can rapidly spread within a species or across populations.

Identifying these signs is crucial for early detection and intervention, as many FADs can lead to severe outbreaks that threaten food security and animal health. Monitoring for vesicular lesions and being alert to sudden increases in illness or death rates allows veterinarians and animal health officials to respond swiftly, potentially preventing wider outbreaks and ensuring effective containment measures are enacted.

While fever and cough in domestic species, persistent diarrhea in swine, and rapid weight loss in cattle can suggest health issues, they are not specific signs of FADs and may be seen in various non-FAD-related conditions or diseases. Therefore, the clear and distinct symptom of vesicles combined with high morbidity/mortality is particularly concerning and likely to warrant further investigation for FADs.