An outbreak of vesicular stomatitis in horses and other livestock continues in Colorado. But the state veterinarian’s office says the number of counties under quarantine has dropped from 16 to 14.
State Veterinarian Dr. Keith Roehr says the prolonged warm temperatures have been favorable for the transmission of the virus, which typically causes painful oral blisters that cause difficulty in eating and drinking,
Dr. Roehr says the main method of transmission is through insects, primarily biting flies, and it’s key to remember to take steps to reduce the fly populations near livestock. He also says it’s important to apply insect repellant daily, especially to the animal’s ears.
While rare, human cases of VS can occur, usually among those who handle infected animals. VS in humans can cause flu-like symptoms.
