National report on the 2015 health inspection campaign for cattle: perception and knowledge of cattle farmers and veterinarians regarding foot-and-mouth disease in metropolitan France

Due to concerns about the epidemiological situation in neighbouring countries and the risk of foot-andmouth disease being reintroduced into France, the 2015 health inspection for cattle focused on this disease. The
goal of the inspection was informational in nature, and concentrated on fundamental notions regarding the disease (clinical signs, epidemiology and regulation). An analysis of these inspections aimed to evaluate farmers’ and veterinarians’ knowledge of foot-and-mouth disease and to better understand their perceptions regarding response procedures. The results of the analysis have brought to light certain points that can be applied to  activities used to raise the awareness of farmers and veterinarians, especially concerning susceptible species, infectiousness and the importance of early reporting to veterinarians of any footand-mouth disease warning signs. Also recommended: clarification of the definition of a suspected case, the possibility of contacting a reference veterinarian if there is any doubt regarding vesicular or ulcerative lesions, and participation of veterinarians in practical exercises.
English
Theme: 
Publication date: 
Friday, December 30, 2016
Author: 
Noémie Raut, Julie Rivière, Soline Hosteing, Olivier Debaere, Eric Collin, Stéphanie Philizot, Gina Zanella
Keyword: 
Health inspection for cattle
foot-and-mouth disease
epidemiological surveillance