The recent outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in South Korea, Japan, China and Vietnam serve as a reminder of the need for vigilance about biosecurity.
Canadians either travelling to or hosting visitors from affected countries are urged to take precautions, especially if they will be in contact with livestock on farms and ranches.
“FMD is a highly contagious disease of cloven-hoofed animals that can be easily carried back to Canada on our clothing, footwear or equipment,” said Dr. Gerald Hauer, chief provincial veterinarian of Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development.
“Cattle, swine, sheep, goats and members of the deer family can all be affected.”
To stop the spread of the disease, special precautions are being taken at the border. Visitors must inform a Canadian Border Services Agency officer if they plan to visit farms, shows or exhibitions where livestock are kept.s
Travellers entering Canada are also required to declare all food, plants, animals and animal products, as fresh and prepared meat products, embryos, semen, milk, hair, leather goods and skins from susceptible species can carry FMD.
“Travellers should ensure all clothing and footwear worn during visits abroad are free from soil or manure,” says Hauer.
“Clothes should be dry-cleaned and, if dry-cleaning is not an option, they can be thoroughly washed and dried at high temperatures. Footwear should be disinfected before visiting any farm, zoo or park.”
A general recommendation is to avoid contact with farm animals, zoos or wildlife for seven to 14 days after returning to Canada.
Although domestic pets are not susceptible to FMD, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency recommends taking precautions for pets travelling from an FMD infected country.
On return to Canada, pets should be thoroughly shampooed to eliminate any virus clinging to their coats.
These recommendations are on top of the basic biosecurity measures that are already in place to minimize the spread of all infectious animal diseases.
Important biosecurity measures include restricting visitor access to animals unless necessary; routinely cleaning and disinfecting footwear, clothing and equipment; recording movement of people, animals and equipment on and off farms and ranches; buying animal replacements, feed and supplies from reputable suppliers; and isolating new animals for at least 14 days before introducing them into the herd.
“The appearance of FMD on Canadian soil would immediately shut down entire segments of our livestock industry,” said Hauer.
“The economic and societal impact of FMD on a trading nation is devastating.”