It causes influenza-like symptoms. Vesicular stomatitis causes a mild fever, and the formation of blister-like lesions on the inside of the mouth, and on the lips, nose, hooves and udder. The blisters break, leaving raw, sore areas. Affected animals often salivate profusely, and are unwilling to eat or drink. Some animals, particularly swine, may become lame.
Milking cows show a marked decrease in milk production.
Vesicular stomatitis is diagnosed by laboratory testing on samples of fluid from the vesicles of affected animals, or by testing a blood sample taken from the animal. Call your veterinarian immediately, or call the nearest office of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, which is listed in the government blue pages of your phone book. All animals with lesions should be kept separate from healthy animals, preferably indoors. Do NOT move animals from your premises until a definitive diagnosis has been made. Wear protective clothing when handling suspect animals to help prevent exposure to the virus.