Animals carrying the virus are introduced into susceptible herds. Contaminated facilities are used to hold susceptible animals. Contaminated vehicles are used to move susceptible animals. Raw or improperly cooked garbage containing infected meat or animal products is fed to susceptible animals. Susceptible animals are exposed to materials such as hay, feedstuffs, hides, or biologics contaminated with the virus.
Susceptible animals drink common source contaminated water.
A susceptible cow is inseminated by semen from an infected bull. USDA is urging livestock owners and private veterinary practitioners to report any unusual animal health symptoms to their local agricultural officials. If an outbreak is detected in the U.S., federal statutes for FMD eradication allow officials to seize animals, products, buildings, production tools, contaminated feed and fodder, etc. Any item requiring destruction must be appraised and an indemnity program must be in place before the government may destroy those items. Arkansas animal health officials are closely monitoring the situation in Europe and are in constant contact with federal officials and counterparts in other states.