Richard Dunkle, with the USDA's animal and plant inspection service, said international travelers entering the United States must take steps to rid themselves of the virus. The virus can be killed off by heat, low humidity, or some disinfectants. He advised washing or dry-cleaning all clothes and outerwear before arrival in the United States. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman said the United States already has boosted the surveillance measures it had in place. About 1,800 USDA inspectors are assigned to 90 points of entry to the United States, Dunkle said, and 100 others will be temporarily assigned to help them monitor and inspect incoming travelers.
Infected animals can lose weight and stop milk production, decreasing their economic value.
The disease is only rarely fatal, though it is more dangerous to very young animals. It usually runs its course in two to three weeks with most animals recovering, though some take as long as six months to recover fully. There is no cure for the disease. Vaccines exist but are rarely useful, Torres said. Even vaccinating does not prevent the spread of the disease, he said.