This summer’s outbreak of vesicular stomatitis in Colorado continues to spread, according to an .
The virus, which creates mouth and nose sores that make it difficult for horses, cattle and other livestock to eat, is now active in 70 locations in 10 Colorado counties, up .
Montrose, Larimer and Delta counties have the largest number of quarantines. Joining the list this week were Conejos and Weld counties.
“This outbreak is not contained to one specific area of the state. I encourage all livestock owners to be aware of their county status and take the proper precautions to prevent insect populations on their property,” said state veterinarian Keith Roehr in a statement.
Last summer the virus was largely limited to the northern Front Range, but this year it is hitting Western Slope counties as well. Biting insects are believed to be the primary way the disease is spread.
