From the Guidelines
Foot and mouth disease (FMD) cannot typically be transmitted to humans through consuming beef, pork, or dairy products. The virus that causes FMD primarily affects cloven-hoofed animals like cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats, but it is extremely rare for humans to contract the disease 1. When animal products are properly cooked and pasteurized, any potential virus is destroyed. Additionally, in countries where FMD outbreaks occur, strict control measures are implemented, including quarantine of affected animals and removal of infected animals from the food supply.
Key Considerations
- The virus primarily spreads between animals through direct contact, aerosols, and contaminated materials rather than through consumption of animal products by humans.
- It's essential to note that FMD should not be confused with hand, foot, and mouth disease, which is a different illness that affects humans, particularly children, and is caused by different viruses.
- Standard food safety practices, including proper cooking of meat and pasteurization of dairy products, further ensure that animal products are safe for human consumption.
Evidence-Based Recommendations
- Avoid consuming unpasteurized dairy products, as they can pose a risk of transmitting diseases, as highlighted in a study on the consumption of raw or unpasteurized milk and milk products by pregnant women and children 1.
- Ensure that beef, pork, and dairy products are handled, cooked, and pasteurized properly to minimize the risk of disease transmission.
- Be aware of the potential risks associated with consuming raw or unpasteurized animal products, as outlined in studies on the epidemiology of diseases caused by these products 1.
From the Research
Foot and Mouth Disease Transmission
- Foot and mouth disease (FMD) can be transmitted through various means, including contact with infected animals, contaminated feed, and infected milk and dairy products 2.
- The disease can affect cloven-hoofed animals, such as cattle, pigs, and sheep, and can be spread through the movement of infected animals or contaminated products.
Risk of Transmission through Beef, Pork, or Dairy
- There is evidence to suggest that FMD can be transmitted through raw (untreated) milk and dairy products 2.
- However, there is limited information available on the risk of transmission through beef or pork products.
- It is worth noting that FMD is a highly contagious disease, and the risk of transmission can be high if proper control measures are not in place.
Control Measures and Prevention
- Control measures, such as vaccination and improved livestock management practices, can help to prevent the spread of FMD 3, 4.
- The effective application of control measures, combined with codes of practice for the treatment of potentially infected milk and dairy products, can help to prevent the spread of FMD through these products 2.
- Improved vaccines and improved use of vaccines, as well as regulatory frameworks that facilitate trade, can also help to control the disease 4.