Vesicular Stomatitis - Texas, New Mexico and ...
13 July 2004
Vesicular Stomatitis - Texas, New Mexico and Colorado – 2004
Vesicular stomatitis (VS) has been detected in Texas, New Mexico and Colorado. The viral disease, which is not present in Canadian livestock, affects a range of animals including horses, cattle, swine and members of the deer and llama families. Both cattle and horses have been found affected in the U.S.
In affected livestock, the virus can cause blister-like lesions to form in the mouth and on the dental pad, tongue, lips, nostrils, hooves, and teats. Affected animals often refuse to eat and drink and show signs of lameness because of discomfort associated with the disease. The disease is rarely fatal, and animals generally recover in approximately two weeks. Humans who have contact with infected animals may develop mild influenza-like symptoms. For additional information about the disease, please visit the VS fact sheet.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has suspended the importation of susceptible animals from the affected states. The suspension also includes susceptible animals that have been in the affected states during the 21 days before importation.
Susceptible animals from American states must be certified as not having been in an affected state during the previous 21 days. CFIA veterinary inspectors are undertaking detailed health assessments to determine whether these animals can be safely imported. Any animal suspected of having VS or being exposed to the disease is not permitted to enter Canada.
This press release is available on the CFIA web site, at:
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/anima/heasan/disemala/vssv/americ200...