USDA research has revealed that white-tailed deer are susceptible to the same virus strain now affecting domestic animals overseas. The same studies also showed that infected deer could shed virus up to 4 weeks after infection and could pass the infection to other deer and cattle. Likewise, infected cattle are able to pass the virus to deer, and with the explosion of the white-tailed deer population in the United States, researchers are concerned about the repercussions with wildlife and livestock should the disease arrive in the country.
If FMD arrives in the United States, it will most likely be found first in domestic animals, Wright said. Because FMD is highly contagious among cloven-hoofed animals, ungulate populations found in the area of FMD outbreaks could become targets to control further spread of the disease. The disease does not affect horses, mules and burros.
USGS is working with Interior and USDA to develop a proactive contingency plans for addressing the possible introduction of FMD into the United States.
The USGS serves the nation by providing reliable scientific information to describe and understand the Earth; minimize loss of life and property from natural disasters; manage water, biological, energy, and mineral resources; and enhance and protect our quality of life.
For web-based information connect to:
USGS Wildlife Health Alert: http://www.nwhc.usgs.gov (WHA will be linked to home page).
USDA APHIS' FMD: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/oa/fmd/index.html
Great Britain Agriculture Ministry: http://www.maff.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/fmd/default.htm
Office International des Epizooties:
Contact: Dr. Scott Wright
scott_wright@usgs.gov
608-270-2460
United States Geological Survey
17-Apr-2001