HORSE MANAGEMENT ARTICLES
At this point in time, our country as not had Foot And Mouth
disease since 1929. Due to the contagious nature and devastating effects that this disease would have
on livestock, our economy, and our food supply, EVERYONE needs to be aware of the seriousness of the
disease and know how easily this disease is spread. Foot and Mouth does not have health effects on
humans, but humans can spread the disease to animals. This disease is considered one of the most
contagious viral disease known and affects all cloven hoofed animals, including swine, cattle, sheep,
goats, and deer. Clinical signs include blisters and sores on the mouth, tongue, lips, teats, and between
and around the claws. While not always fatal, animals that survive become debilitated lose production capacity,
and can serve as viral shedders in spreading the disease. Humans are not infected, and there is no treatment or
approved vaccine for animal use. Horses, other animals and pets, although they
are not directly affected could spread the disease to other animals if they come in contact with the
disease. The virus can also be mechanically transmitted on people's shoes, clothes, other personal effects, and equipment. It
can remain airborne and spread up to a radius of approximately 40 miles. In addition, the feeding of
contaminated food items and waste food products is a major source of how it is spread. This disease is so
devastating because of its ability to infect multiple species. Dr. David Marshall, North Carolina's
State veterinarian, said that he was particularly concerned with the introduction of the virus by
animals and product originating in FMD affected countries entering the US secondarily through non
infected countries, It would be prudent to be wary of any imported agricultural or meat food product
during this high risk period." North Carolina Department of Agriculture is recommending the following
precautions as an aid in preventing the introduction of FMD:
Increase farm biosecurity measures by limiting traffic and personal access of persons not directly affiliated with farm operations.
Be aware of the international travel status of farm employees and restrict access if they have traveled overseas within the past 30 days.
Limit introductions of new additions to the herd. If necessary, be aware of the background and health status of the additions, isolating and observing them for a period of
10-14 days prior to introduction.
Refrain from feeding to animals any garbage or waste food products of any type.
Educate farm employees not to receive any gifts or products, particularly food or meat items, from
relatives that may reside overseas.
Restrict the purchase or use of feed, forage, hay, vaccines, and medications to those produced
domestically. ---Purchase or lease no used farm equipment unless confident of it's domestic origin
Marshall said "While a safety net is in place to aid in the prevention of the introduction of this
virus, the nature of this disease makes it vitally important that all North Carolinians, particularly
those who travel internationally and are involved in the agricultural industry, to become educated
and aid in the effort on the local level, This is a situation to be overly cautious and not take
anything for granted."
Livestock owners should be especially observant of the health status of their animals and investigate
any animal showing clinical signs suggestive of FMD. Signs include blisters or sores on the muzzle,
feet, teats, or mouth; lameness associated with foot lesions; or lack of appetite or excessive
slobbering associated with mouth lesions.
While other diseases can cause similar clinical signs, anything suspicious should be pursued
through veterinary examination. Producers and veterinarians are encouraged to report any suspicious
case to the NCDA, Veterinary Division at 919-733.7601.
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