The disease is not considered dangerous to people. But people can carry the virus on their clothing and shoes. Experts say the virus can live for long periods in the body of an animal and in animal products and wastes. The virus also is able to survive in the air and in water and fields. They say farmers can support efforts to prevent its spread.
Experts urge farmers to watch for signs of the disease, such as an animal having difficulty walking.
Another sign is large amounts of fluid leaking from the mouth. Farmers should immediately report any unusual sign of disease to local experts or disease control officials. One or more versions can attack animals at the same time. An animal can suffer repeated attacks of the disease. This is because natural resistance to one form of the virus does not protect it against other versions.