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Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a contagious disease affecting even-toed livestock, such as cattle, goats, sheep, and pigs. This disease is caused by a virus from the Aphthovirus genus and is highly transmissible, especially among large livestock on farms. FMD outbreaks can cause significant economic losses, reduce livestock productivity, and have a negative impact on animal welfare. 

Livestock infected with FMD typically show symptoms such as blisters on the mouth, tongue, and hooves. These blisters often rupture, causing painful sores that lead to decreased appetite and weight loss in livestock. In addition, infected animals may experience high fever and difficulty walking due to the blisters around their hooves. Severe cases of FMD can decrease livestock productivity and may even result in death, directly impacting the animal-based food industry and the livestock economy. 

Vaccination is one of the main strategies for preventing and controlling FMD. FMD vaccines work by inducing an immune response in livestock, preparing their bodies to recognize and fight the virus upon exposure. Vaksindo is now producing FMD vaccines, namely Aphtovaks E and Aphtovaks DE. These vaccines are usually administered to healthy livestock and can protect for varying periods, depending on the type of vaccine and the virus strains prevalent in the field. 

Some of the benefits of implementing an FMD vaccination program include: 

1. Preventing the Spread: Mass vaccination can help minimize the risk of virus spread, especially in areas vulnerable to outbreaks.
2. Enhancing Farm Productivity: Livestock protected from FMD tend to stay healthy, helping maintain high productivity levels.
3. Reducing Healthcare Costs: Vaccination is far more economical than the costs of treating and managing an outbreak.
4. Supporting Animal Product Exports: Countries free from FMD have greater opportunities to export animal products, as many countries enforce strict regulations on products from regions previously exposed to FMD. 

FMD vaccination programs should be conducted regularly and comprehensively across all high-risk livestock areas. To ensure vaccination effectiveness, these programs should also consider factors such as age, health status, and the environment of the livestock. 

Foot-and-mouth disease in large livestock presents a serious challenge to the livestock industry. However, effective vaccination can control the risk of FMD spread. Vaccination not only helps to maintain the health and welfare of livestock but also supports the sustainability of the livestock industry and food security. With strong commitment and cooperation among various parties, FMD can be prevented, and the livestock industry can continue to grow steadily.