KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Foot and mouth disease is so highly contagious it can be spread on a gentle breeze or the tires of farm machinery.
The disease, which affects cattle and other hooved animals, was eradicated in the U.S. more than 80 years ago. But a government proposal to import fresh beef from Brazil – where the disease is still active – has ignited fears of a new epidemic that could cost the U.S. cattle industry billions of dollars.
The idea is "ludicrous," South Dakota rancher Tracy Trask wrote on a government website where the proposal was posted. "Have you lost your freakin' minds? What would be the economic benefit that would outweigh the decimation of the cattle industry in this country?"
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