Introduction

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), locally known as "Muh Khar" (منہ کھر), is a severe, highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals such as cows and buffaloes. It is one of the most economically devastating livestock diseases in the world due to its rapid spread and the long recovery time it requires. Farmers in South Asia, especially in rural regions, often use traditional remedies like "Neela Thotha" (Copper Sulfate) to manage the symptoms. This article provides a detailed and practical treatment protocol combining modern veterinary care with traditional methods to ensure a comprehensive recovery process.

Understanding Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)

FMD is caused by the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus (FMDV), which affects the mouth and feet of infected animals. The disease leads to high fever, blisters, and ulcers in the mouth, tongue, and hooves, resulting in pain, drooling, lameness, and severe reduction in milk production. Although adult animals usually recover, the disease can be fatal for young calves and can significantly affect the economic productivity of a dairy farm.

Symptoms of FMD

- High fever (104°F - 106°F)

- Excessive salivation and drooling

- Blisters and ulcers in the mouth, tongue, gums, and nostrils

- Blisters on the hooves, leading to lameness

- Loss of appetite

- Decrease in milk yield

- Rapid breathing and depression

Transmission

FMD is highly contagious and spreads rapidly through:

- Direct contact with infected animals

- Contaminated feed, water, and equipment

- Airborne particles

- Movement of people, vehicles, and other animals

The Role of Neela Thotha (Copper Sulfate) in Treatment

Neela Thotha is a traditional antiseptic used in South Asian veterinary practices. It has antifungal, antibacterial, and wound-drying properties, making it useful for treating open sores and lesions associated with FMD. While it does not cure the viral infection, it aids in healing external wounds and preventing secondary bacterial infections.

Comprehensive Treatment Protocol

The following protocol combines both traditional and modern approaches to treat FMD effectively:

1. Isolation and Biosecurity

- Immediately isolate infected animals to prevent spreading.

- Disinfect the animal shed daily using lime, phenyl, or bleaching powder.

- Avoid the movement of animals, feed, tools, and people between infected and healthy areas.

2. External Treatment for Mouth and Feet Lesions

Mouth Lesions

- Rinse the mouth with a lukewarm solution twice daily made of:

  - Neela Thotha (Copper Sulfate) – 5 grams

  - Potassium Permanganate – 1 gram

  - Dissolved in 1 liter of warm water

- Apply glycerin or honey mixed with turmeric on ulcers for faster healing.

Foot Lesions

- Wash feet with a diluted antiseptic solution (Dettol, Savlon, or iodine solution).

- Apply a paste made of Neela Thotha mixed with water or petroleum jelly.

- Ensure the animal stands in a clean, dry area. Sprinkle lime or ash around the standing space to keep it dry.

3. Internal Treatment and Supportive Therapy

Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief

- Meloxicam or Flunixin Meglumine injections can help reduce fever and pain. Dosage should be prescribed by a qualified veterinarian.

Antibiotics to Prevent Secondary Infections

- Although FMD is viral, antibiotics are used to prevent secondary bacterial infections:

  - Oxytetracycline (LA) or

  - Penicillin-Streptomycin combination

  - Administer as per veterinary advice

Multivitamins and Immune Boosters

- Multivitamin injections (especially Vitamin B complex) support recovery.

- Oral supplements with zinc, selenium, and Vitamin E enhance immunity.

4. Nutrition and Hydration

- Provide soft and palatable green fodder to reduce mouth pain.

- Prepare energy-rich gruels made of wheat bran, molasses, or barley.

- Offer electrolyte and glucose water (Rehydran or Electral) 2-3 times daily.

- Add jaggery (gur) to drinking water for energy.

5. Natural Remedies and Herbal Support

- Turmeric and honey paste for oral ulcers

- Neem leaf decoction as an oral rinse

- Aloe vera gel applied externally on foot lesions

6. Monitoring and Recovery Management

- Monitor temperature daily

- Record feed and water intake

- Observe behavior and movement

- Regularly clean and dress wounds until completely healed

- Maintain treatment records for future reference

7. Prevention through Vaccination and Farm Management

- Regular vaccination (bi-annually) with trivalent or quadrivalent FMD vaccine is essential.

- Deworm animals every 3 months to improve overall health.

- Practice good hygiene and reduce overcrowding in cattle sheds.

- Quarantine new animals for 2 weeks before introducing them to the herd.

8. Post-Recovery Care

- Continue nutritional support and multivitamin supplementation

- Gradually reintroduce recovered animals to the herd

- Sanitize affected areas thoroughly before reuse

Do’s and Don’ts During FMD Treatment

Do’s:

- Always consult a qualified veterinarian

- Use personal protective gear when handling infected animals

- Keep infected and healthy animals completely separated

- Use Neela Thotha in recommended quantity only

Don’ts:

- Do not overuse copper sulfate; it can cause tissue burns

- Avoid force-feeding; let animals eat at their own pace

- Don’t allow untreated wounds to remain exposed

- Never mix infected animals with healthy ones, even after recovery, for at least 3 weeks

Conclusion

FMD is a serious disease that demands timely and careful intervention. While traditional remedies like Neela Thotha play an important role in managing visible symptoms, they must be supplemented with modern veterinary care for complete recovery. This integrated approach not only treats the infected animals but also prevents the spread of the disease within the herd. Following a strict treatment and prevention protocol is the key to maintaining livestock health and ensuring economic sustainability for farmers. With proper awareness, training, and support, even small-scale farmers can effectively manage and overcome FMD outbreaks.