Although fatalities are uncommon, the disease is debilitating to animals and has a crippling economic impact in affected countries. The virus can be spread on contaminated vehicles and equipment, and people can readily transfer infection to animals on contaminated boots, hands and clothing. In addition, the virus can be carried in human nasal passages for up to 36 hours. Although humans can carry the virus, they are not affected by it. The main sign of FMD in pigs is lameness.
Affected pigs prefer to lie down and are reluctant to walk.
If your potbellied pig shows these signs, please contact your local veterinarian immediately or call your state veterinarian. Although the disease is usually not fatal, an outbreak would require the slaughter of all potential hosts, including these beloved pets. For this reason, it is in the best interest of potbellied pig owners to reduce the risk of disease exposure and spread by taking a few precautions. FMD has not been seen in the U.S. since 1929. The media attention is raising public awareness on a broad scale to allow people to take the necessary precautions to prevent disease introduction and spread.