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Ranchers.net

VS diagnosed in Wyoming horse

by Pete Hisey on 8/21/2006 for Meatingplace.com




A horse on a farm near Casper, Wyo., was diagnosed on Wednesday with vesicular stomatitis, a viral disease with symptoms similar to, but much milder than, foot-and-mouth disease. Other animals on the farm, including 25 head of cattle, were unaffected. The disease causes painful blistering in the tissues in and around the mouth, as well as around hooves, causing animals to refuse to eat or drink, as well as to exhibit signs of lameness. It affects cattle, horses and swine primarily, although sheep and goats can contract the virus. In some mild cases, symptoms will not be apparent, but animals will eat and drink far less than usual.

The National Veterinary Service Laboratory confirmed the diagnosis after a veterinarian contacted APHIS. The premises are now under quarantine and the affected horse has been isolated from other animals. The state is also increasing insect control measures in the area.

VS is a relatively rare disease that is found mainly in the Southwest during hot weather. The last case found was in late 2005, and the most recent widespread outbreak was in 1995.
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