State and federal agency veterinarians have programs in place to decrease the risk of introduction into the United States and to respond to an outbreak. Authorities require that producers quarantine facilities housing animals suspected of infection with FMD, restrict animal movement on surrounding farms and ranches, and halt exports of animals. Authorities must dispose of carcasses by burial or burning, and disinfect facilities. Restocking is done after the facility has been vacant for a minimum of 30 days, and new animals are closely observed for recurrence of infection. It is not known how likely an outbreak would be in the United States.
Vigilance is critical.
There is concern that foreign travelers and visitors from other countries may introduce the disease into the United States without knowing it. When outbreaks occur worldwide, veterinarians and producers should limit foreign visitors to farms to reduce risk of infection. Basic on-farm biosecurity would include disinfectant solutions such as foot baths, disposable boots and disposable coveralls. Because control is so difficult, preventing introduction of the disease is crucial. Veterinarians assist producers in facing the challenge of recognizing and reporting FMD and would be called upon to participate in the depopulation, disposal, disinfection and evaluating facilities for restocking.