Facts and Precautions to Avoid the Spread of FMD

Here are a few things to consider regarding FMD transmission:

1. Humans can inhale and trap the virus in their respiratory system if in contact with the virus, and during this time they may be a potential source of infection.

2. The primary route of spread is through the upper and lower respiratory system, although spread through broken skin and abrasions is also possible.

3. Mechanical spread via mechanical means is a real possibility.

4. The virus can be killed using a 0.1 percent concentration of household bleach (1ounce bleach/gal. of water). If the area to be disinfected is heavily soiled, a 3 percent solution should be used (2.5 ounces bleach/gal. of water).

Additional recommendations to consider for those traveling to endemic areas:

1. If visiting farms, stockyards, sale barns, animal laboratories, packing plants, zoos, or other animal exhibits:
• Wear clothing and footwear provided by the facility visited.
• Disinfect footwear with a 0.1 percent solution of household bleach upon leaving the operation.
• Shower as soon as possible upon leaving the operation.
• Wash all clothing worn on/or to the operation upon return to your hotel or other accommodations.
• All footwear should be disinfected with a 0.1 percent solution of household bleach before returning home.

2. Under no circumstances should any meat or other animal products be brought back into the United States - no matter how small or apparently safe.

2. Avoid contact with cattle, sheep, goats, deer and other ruminants, and swine for a period of 10 days after returning home. Places to avoid include: animal farms, sale barns, stockyards, animal laboratories, packing houses, zoos, exhibitions, and any other place where the above animals may be present.

PROTOCOL FOR PERSONS VISITING OR ENTERING

FROM FMD COUNTRIES

Persons leaving the U.S. and going to a FMD country:

Persons going to designated endemic FMD countries are requested to not visit a farm for 10 days after returning to the states. After that time, no clothing or footwear that was worn in the country experiencing FMD should be worn unless properly disinfected.

Visiting travelers from countries with FMD:

Persons visiting from countries that are currently experiencing problems with outbreaks of FMD, should not visit a farm engaged in the production of animal agriculture. However, if the stay in this country involves visits to animal production units, a minimum of 10 days lapse time is required before visiting the farm units. It is also highly recommended to those sponsoring foreign visitors to furnish boots and coveralls during the farm visits.

No meat, or animal products from FMD endemic countries will be allowed.