EN
The foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) belongs to the family of Picornaviridae, genus Aphthovirus. The virus exists in the form of seven different serotypes: O, A, C, Asia 1, SAT 1, SAT 2, SAT 3 and multiple subtypes reflecting significant genetic variability. The FMDV genome organization is similar to that of other picornaviruses. The determination of FMDV nucleotide sequences and phylogenetic analysis is the definitive technique for characterizing individual isolates of the virus. The paper presents information regarding genetic studies of FMDVs originating from different parts of the world.