1. Experimental Foot-and-Mouth Disease in sheep: validation of a virulent challenge model C. Hamers1 – L. Mouton1 – M. Besset1 – A. Dekker2 – M. Bleijenberg2 B. Van Schaijk3 – J. Coco-Martin3 – M. Curet1 – S. Goutebroze Merial S.A.S Lyon – France; 2 Wageningen Bioveterinary Research (WBR), Lelystad, The Netherlands; 3 Merial B.V., Lelystad, The Netherlands

2. FMD challenge model in sheep
FMD in sheep is frequently mild and often inapparent.
Limited number of challenge experiments described in the literature.
Confirming the inconsistent clinical expression, with in general limited FMD lesions.
The purpose of this study was to assess, in sheep, the ability of 3 different strains of FMD (A22, SAT2, O Manisa) to induce clinical signs and viraemia, using the dose and route of inoculation considered suitable for cattle.

3. Results