Where does FMD occur?

FMD is a disease that is constantly present in most parts of the world. Only the US, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand, and Australia are free of the disease.  The current outbreak of FMD began with a confirmed case in the UK in late February of this year.

Is the US at increased risk for FMD given the current outbreak?

Yes and No.  Anytime there is an outbreak of animal or human disease in the world in today's world of speedy travel to all parts of the globe, there is an increased risk of someone carrying the disease back into the country.  

When an outbreak occurs, the USDA-APHIS steps up monitoring and security at airports.  Returning passengers are checked for animal products such as meat, milk, cheeses, and hides, and asked if they have been on a farm.  Additionally, beagles trained to sniff out animal products are employed to monitor baggage.  Increased passenger awareness of the dangers of the disease assists the USDA in their inspections.