Industry representatives included the American Veterinary Medical Association, National Cattlemen s Beef Association, National Milk Producers Federation, National Meat Association, National Pork Producers Council, American Meat Institute and others. Dr. Torres explained that FMD is a highly contagious viral disease that affects livestock with two toes. There are 7 FMD serotypes, and distinct separate vaccines are necessary for each serotype. Heat at 70 C. kills the virus, pH lower than 6.0 inactivates it. Garbage feeding of swine is a common cause.
Livestock never regain their position after infection.
Carrier state in cattle may last from 6 to 24 months. Virus can still circulate after vaccination. Neither horses nor humans are susceptible. Surviving infected livestock will be immune for a year. Vaccination is only good for 6 months.