August 3, 2012

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture today updated an importation order that was originally put in place in May. The updated order adds Colorado to the list of states with confirmed cases of Vesicular Stomatitis (VS). The original order was for animals from New Mexico.

“Protecting the health and safety of Nebraska’s livestock herd is of utmost importance,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Dennis Hughes. “Producers should follow importation requirements and remain vigilant in looking for signs and symptoms of Vesicular Stomatitis in their own herds.”

According to Hughes the disease resembles Foot-and-Mouth disease. Vesicular Stomatitis is a viral disease that is characterized by fever and the formation of vesicles (blisters) in the mouth, nostrils, hooves and teats. When blisters break, there is usually salivation, nasal discharge and anorexia. In three to four days, the animal will recover. The disease primarily affects horses, cattle, swine and occasionally sheep and goats.

Producers who are considering moving livestock from another state into Nebraska need to contact the NDA State Veterinarian’s office to learn about specific import requirements. Staff can be reached by calling (402) 471-2351. Import regulations and orders also can be reviewed on-line at www.agr.ne.gov.

It also is advised that producers moving livestock from Nebraska into another state contact the destination state to learn its latest import requirements.

NDA News Release