It is rarely fatal to animals but may kill very young animals. There is no cure, and the virus usually runs its course in two to three weeks with most animals recovering. However, affected animals can become debilitated and suffer loss of milk or meat production. When there is an outbreak of FMD in another country, the U.S.temporarily prohibits the importation of animals and animal products from the European Union into the United States. Passengers are required to identify any farm contact to Customs and USDA officials.
All baggage is subject to inspection.
There is heightened alert at ports of entry and airports to ensure passengers, luggage and cargo are checked as appropriate. This includes placing additional inspectors and dog teams at airports to check incoming flights and passengers. USDA officials also are stationed around the globe to monitor and coordinate with the state agriculture officials. USDA recently initiated an aggressive public education campaign that includes additional signage in airports, public service announcements, website, and other tools to inform the public about this important issue and steps they can take to prevent it from entering the United States. If people from other countries where confirmed cases of FMD have been found are scheduled to visit your property, make sure they wear freshly cleaned clothing and footwear.