Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a severe disease that affects animals with divided hooves such as pigs, cows, sheep, goats and deer. FMD is highly contagious and viral.
Disease Facts
Human disease is extremely rare and usually mild if it occurs. It may cause an acute fever and small blisters on the hands, feet and inner mouth. The only human case in medical literature was reported from England in 1967 (Lancet).
No. Hand-Foot-Mouth disease is a different disease caused by a different virus. Hand-Foot-Mouth disease usually affects children under 10-years old. It is transmitted by direct contact with nasal/throat secretions and feces.
Humans may carry the virus on their shoes, clothes or personal objects. Humans may also passively carry the virus in their nose and throat.
There are no precautions before traveling.
Yes. All international travelers must state on their Customs Declaration Form whether or not they have been on a farm or in contact with livestock, and if they are bringing any meat or dairy products into the USA with them. Agriculture officials will inspect the baggage of all travelers who indicate they have been on a farm or in contact with livestock. (This is done at the first point of entry into the USA, not regional airports in Sioux Falls, Pierre, Rapid City, Aberdeen, etc)
Any soiled footwear must be disinfected with detergent and bleach. Travelers must avoid contact with livestock or wildlife for 5 days after returning to South Dakota. In addition, soiled clothing must be washed and disinfected prior to returning to the United States. You may not bring pork, beef or sheep products into the country.
Cooked meats are generally safe for consumption because the virus is killed by heat.
Dogs may be affected, but not cats.
Yes. Rural stress, economic loss, travel restrictions.