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News Release 3-7-2001

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FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE A GREAT CONCERN FOR WEST VIRGINIA’S LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY

For Immediate Release March 7, 2001

CHARLESTON, W.VA. — As a part of the West Virginia Department of Agriculture’s mission to protect animal health, the following letter is being sent to all veterinarians, extension agents, and livestock market managers and inspectors. Foot-and-mouth disease does not present a threat to human health, but is a great concern for West Virginia’s livestock industry. It is a highly contagious and fast-spreading disease that, without early detection, could have irreversible effects for livestock producers in the Mountain State.

FROM: Dr. Lewis P. Thomas
State Veterinarian

SUBJECT: Foot-and-Mouth Disease Alert

Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass issued a warning today concerning a high alert about foot-and-mouth (FMD) disease. This serious disease is spreading on several fronts in England, many countries in Europe, and around the world. Please note first, this disease is not recognized as a threat to public health.

In livestock, the disease is characterized by fever and blister-like lesions followed by erosions on the tongue and lips, in the mouth, on the teats and between the hooves. Prevention is most important, but early detection in case of entry is of extreme importance. FMD affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, swine, sheep and goats. Horses are not affected, but may serve as vehicles for spread. FMD may be confused with several harmful, but less serious diseases such as vesicular stomatitis, blue tongue, bovine viral diarrhea, and foot rot in cattle, vesicular exanthema of swine, and swine vesicular disease.
FMD is widespread and the threat never enjoys a holiday. Commissioner Douglass is asking that all veterinarians, livestock inspectors, farmers, livestock producers and garbage feeders be constantly alert for this serious disease. When and if any person detects animals with symptoms of the disease, they are asked to immediately contact the Department of Agriculture at 304/558-2201 or 304/558-2214. If after hours, please contact State Veterinarian Dr. Lewis P. Thomas, 304/343-8347.

The people associated with livestock are our first line of defense. Quick detection and reporting of symptoms may save billions of dollars and years of recovery. Commissioner Douglass is asking for your assistance in keeping West Virginia and America free of FMD.

For more information, contact Bill Bissett, 304/558-3708, or bbissett@ag.state.wv.us.

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