What actions should take place to protect the US cattle herd?
The United States continuously maintains an active program to prevent the introduction of foot-and-mouth disease to the US cattle herd. These efforts have been strengthened since the outbreak in Europe. Travelers returning from countries with foot-and-mouth present a difficult to control risk for introduction of the virus into the US. Travelers entering through customs should comply with all requests and recommendations of USDA officials. Do not try to sneak in meat or dairy products. Wash all clothes and wipe luggage and shoes with disinfectant solutions as directed. Travelers or their pets that have been on farms in countries with the disease should not visit US farms and ranches for at least one week. Veterinarians and cattle producers must remain vigilant for clinical signs consistent with foot-and-mouth and report any suspicions to USDA veterinarians immediately.
