A single case of FMD would affect every segment of the U.S.' multi-billion dollar animal and animal product export market. Consumers can lose confidence in the he safety of meat food products. Prohibitions would be placed on the sale and international shipment of animals and animal products. Eradication costs are very high. All animals exposed to the virus must be destroyed to prevent the spread of disease.
Vaccines provide only temporary protection and revaccination is needed at six-month intervals.
Vaccine use is limited to outbreaks only, and vaccinated animals must be slaughtered before international trade can be resumed. The U.S. has regulations in place to prevent the introduction of FMD-infected animals and animal products. If you suspect a disease problem, report it immediately to your local veterinarian or regulatory animal health official. Early detection and reporting are critical. If you have visited a farm abroad, or if you've traveled and live, work or plan to visit a farm in the U.S., shower, shampoo, and change into clean clothing.