United States officials worry that the disease could spread to this country. So far this outbreak has not affected animals here. The United States government is keeping a close eye on European livestock these days. Livestock are farm animals such as cows, sheep, pigs and goats. If they catch the germs, their hooves and mouths can develop painful blisters.
Many animals recover, but they remain weak.
They cannot produce as much milk or supply as much meat as they could before their illness. It does not pose a threat to human beings. The disease is spread easily among animals. People can also spread the disease to animals through germs carried on their clothing. Vehicles can bring the disease from farm to farm.