Cover Your Hide
by Congressmen Allen Boyd
Foot
and Mouth Disease (FMD) is sweeping the globe
with the rapidity of the Apalachicola after a
rain storm. More than 30 nations have reported
cases of this devastating virus. With recent outbreaks
in Great Britain, France, Northern Ireland, and
Argentina, the only continents free of the disease
are North America, Australia, and Antarctica.
The point of this Boyd Report is to inform those
who are planning to travel overseas of the risks
associated with hunting abroad.
Foot and Mouth Disease can be transmitted in a
variety of ways, most often through direct contact
with an infected animal. Infected animals are
capable of spreading vast amounts of viral particles
to animals and humans. While this disease is not
considered to be a serious threat to humans, it
is possible for a person to spread the virus to
susceptible animals.
If you are planning to travel abroad there are
some precautionary measures that you should take.
First, before returning home, thoroughly cleanse
yourself and your belongings, such as luggage
and clothes. Second, avoid contact with animals
for at least five days after returning; and lastly,
do not bring home prohibited items.
Foot
and Mouth Disease has the potential to wreak
havoc on our animals and cause tens of billions
of dollars in damage to the economy. Please
report animals showing any signs of this disease
immediately. For more information please contact
the
USDA Veterinary Service at 352-333-3120.
Biography
Back to top