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BROOMFIELD – Colorado has become the third US state to have confirmed cases of vesicular stomatitis (VSV). Previous positive cases of vesicular stomatitis in 2019 were diagnosed in Kinney and Tom Green Counties in Texas and Sandoval County, NS.
On July 3, the National Veterinary Services Laboratory reported positive results on samples from two horses in County Weld. Both horses live on separate sites in County Weld and have been quarantined. The initial investigation into Colorado's disease was completed by a veterinarian from the state's veterinary office at the Colorado Department of Agriculture.
"Vesicular stomatitis can be painful for animals and expensive for their owners," said Dr. Keith Roehr, a Colorado veterinarian. "The virus usually causes blisters and mouth sores that can be painful and cause difficulty eating and drinking."
The epidemiological survey conducted in County Weld indicates that a probable source of infection is an incursion of VSV infected vector insects.
Biosecurity measures and vector mitigation measures have been implemented at both sites to reduce the potential spread of the virus.
The animals are monitored daily and the reference premises will remain in national quarantine for at least 14 days from the beginning of the lesions in the last affected animal present on the premises.
There are no vaccines approved by the USDA for VSV.
Background of vesicular stomatitis
Vesicular stomatitis is a viral disease that mainly affects horses and cattle, and sometimes pigs, sheep, goats, llamas and alpacas. The VSV transmission process is not fully understood, but includes vector insects such as black flies, sandflies and biting midges.
The incubation period varies from 2 to 8 days. Clinical signs include vesicles, erosions and thinning of the skin on the muzzle, tongue, teats and coronary bands. Excessive salivation is often the first sign of illness, accompanied by a reluctance to eat or drink. Lameness and weight loss can follow.
Humans can become infected when handling affected animals, but this is a rare event. To avoid human exposure, individuals should use personal protection measures when handling affected animals.
Tips for breeders
Strict control of flies is an important factor in preventing transmission of the disease.
Avoid transferring feed material, cleaning tools or other flock health care equipment.
Veterinarians and cattle owners in Colorado must contact the state of destination when transferring cattle to another to ensure all import conditions are met.
Colorado fairs, livestock shows and rodeos can create new entry conditions based on the size and severity of the current OAS outbreak.
Veterinary Inspection Certificates (CVIs or Health Certificates) issued within 2 to 5 days prior to an event may be helpful in reducing risks. Make sure to stay informed of any new requirements for breeding events.
Important points for veterinarians
Any vesicular disease of cattle should be reported to the state veterinary office in Colorado – to report 303-869-9130. After normal working hours, the voice message will indicate the veterinarian on call.
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