The bacteria often enter a susceptible host through a break in the skin directly above the hoof. Caribou and reindeer are the most common hosts of hoofrot infection. This disease can occur in any caribou herd. During the late 1990s, it was observed in the Mulchatna and Western Arctic herds. Outbreaks of disease are most common and most severe during periods of extended rainy weather.
Abscesses form directly above the hoof.
The abscess contains thick, foul-smelling pus. Infected caribou often limp. Abscesses may also be found in other locations, such as the liver, lungs or mouth. People are theoretically susceptible to infection. However, there have never been any human cases of this disease reported in Alaska.