This now European problem could soon become a problem for farmers here in South Dakota. FMD is basically a highly contagious and economically devastating disease which affects cattle, swine, sheep, goats, deer and other cloven-hoofed ruminants.
Some animals die but many others survive but are severely debilitated.
People cannot contract the virus but can be carriers. According to Britain s Prime Minister, Tony Blair, their outbreak is currently being contained. Jen Meisenheimer, junior, Watertown is currently in Germany through the exchange program. She went on to add the only precautions she know of deal with the testing of meat before it gets delivered to restaurants and shopping centers. A group of French students visiting Northern had a different story to tell.