According to a USDA report, Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV) positive premises have been confirmed in three states (current as of July 8, 2019): Colorado, New Mexico and Texas. 

VSV is a contagious virus that can affect horses, livestock, wildlife and even humans, though rare. It is spread through biting flies and midges, as well as contact (saliva, physical contact, shared equipment). 

Clinical signs of the disease include blister-like lesions similar to those of foot-and-mouth disease. The only way to tell these diseases apart is through laboratory tests.

Double-check Health Certificates for VSV Statements

While VSV is not typically fatal to animals, it is a reportable disease and affects regulations and interstate movement of animals and animal products. 

Confirmed cases of VSV may result in restrictions, additional inspections or testing requirements. Premises containing VSV-positive animals may also be quarantined to help prevent the spread of the virus for 21 days after the lesions in the last affected animals have healed. 

Some states and events put travel restrictions on horses and livestock in and around the affected states, and many states require VSV statements on health certificates during an outbreak.

Prior to moving animals during a VSV outbreak, check with the state of destination to ensure all entry requirements have been met for Certificates of Veterinary Inspection (CVIs) and Extended Equine CVIs (EECVIs).

At GVL, we are also working with state animal health officials to keep AnimalRegs.com updated as we’re notified of any entry requirement changes. Any states that have updated their requirement with GVL SmartEngine technology will have those changes reflected in GVL health certificates and EECVIs.

If you suspect that your animal has VSV, contact your veterinarian.

Additional VSV Resources & Information

Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) Outbreak Alerts