Planned response to an FMD outbreak is not what it used to be

Abstract

The sheer size and structure of livestock operations in the United States, combined with extensive movement between production phases, presents unprecedented foot and mouth disease [FMD) control challenges. The economic impact of an outbreak would be immediate and harsh. The goal of FMD response is to control and eradicate FMD while preserving the US livestock industry, a delicate and precarious balance of priorities. Bovine veterinarians have an opportunity and responsibility to help their clients prepare for a potential FMD outbreak. The voluntary Secure Milk and Secure Beef Supply Plans give veterinarians the tools they need to help their clients implement key business continuity strategies. The biosecurity mitigations and surveillance capabilities will be essential to protect animal health, decrease disease spread, and allow some semblance of business continuity for the livestock industry.