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, feed, hides or biologics contaminated with the virus.
Susceptible animals drink contaminated water.
A susceptible cow is inseminated with semen from an infected bull. U.S. animals are highly susceptible. If an outbreak occurred, the virus could spread rapidly to all parts of the country through routine livestock movements unless detected early and eradicated immediately. If spread unchecked, losses could reach billions of dollars in the first year. Deer and wildlife could become infected rapidly and remain a reservoir for the virus.