|
Vesicular Stomatitis Virus
Ready, Set, NOOOOO, not again! VS is back. As the snow flies in the middle of April, the Colorado Department of Agriculture announced today that the first case of Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VS) in the US has been diagnosed in southern New Mexico. This makes the start of this VS out break about 2 months ahead Ready, Set, NOOOOOO, not again! VS is back. As the snow flies in the middle of April, the Colorado Department of Agriculture announced today that the first case of Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV) in the US has been diagnosed in southern New Mexico. This makes the start of this VS out break about 2 months ahead of last year’s out break and only 4 months after the last premises were released from quarantine in Colorado and Wyoming. While there have been no cases of VSV in Colorado this year, the cases in New Mexico indicate that we could see cases in Colorado during the upcoming insect vector season. Vesicular Stomatitis Background: Colorado most recently experienced its largest VSV outbreak in 2019 resulting in nearly 700 quarantines and movement restrictions involving horses and cattle across the state. The goal in the management of the disease is to accomplish effective control while minimizing the negative economic impacts to livestock owners. Vesicular Stomatitis is a viral disease that primarily affects horses and cattle and rarely in swine, sheep, goats, llamas, and alpacas. The transmission of VSV is not completely understood, but includes insect vectors such as black flies, sand flies, and biting midges. The incubation period ranges from 2-8 days. Clinical signs include vesicles, erosions, and sloughing of the skin on the muzzle, tongue, teats, and coronary bands. Often excessive salivation is the first sign of disease, along with a reluctance to eat or drink. Lameness and weight loss may follow. Humans may become infected when handling affected animals, but this is a rare event. To avoid human exposure, individuals should use personal protective measures when handling affected animals. Tips for Livestock and Horse Owners: Strict fly control is an important factor to inhibit the transmission of the disease. Avoid transferring feeding equipment, cleaning tools, or health care equipment from other herds. Colorado fairs, livestock exhibitions, and rodeos may institute new entry requirements based on the extent and severity of the VSV outbreak. If you are participating in an event, please contact the event organizers prior to travel to determine if entry requirements may have changed. A certificate of veterinary inspection (health certificate) issued within 2-5 days prior to an event can be beneficial in reducing risks. If you suspect any questionable lesions please call Dr. Landes. |
|
