Hoof-and-mouth disease is a contagious viral illness that affects cattle, goats, sheep and pigs. Also known as foot-and-mouth disease, it causes blisters in the mouth and on the hooves of animals, leading to lameness and even death. Other synonyms for the disease include vesicular stomatitis, aphthous fever, contagious pustular dermatitis, and pestivirus. The disease is highly contagious and can spread quickly, making it a serious concern for farmers and the livestock industry. Although humans can't get the virus, they can spread it through contaminated clothing, equipment and vehicles. Vaccines are available to prevent the disease, and prompt detection and proper quarantine measures can help control outbreaks.