Due
to Chile’s natural barriers, the threat of an introduction of FMD is primarily
limited to importation, tourism, bioterrorism, and illegal migration of animals
across the Andes. By comparison,
the U.S. lacks such physical barriers and shares borders with two countries,
Canada and Mexico. For example, an extensive amount of resources are poured into surveillance of the
American-Mexican border, including control programs within Mexico itself.
The advantage of this system is that it allows the U.S. to be prepared for any
potential disease introductions that are carried by transported livestock.
Although
Chile does not have a large wildlife population, the spread of disease by wild
cloven-hoofed animals, such as New World camelids should be considered;
especially in the Andes and in the northern part of the country. However, New
World camelids are fairly resistant to the disease and do not transmit the virus
easily. This is greatly contrasted with the U.S., which has a very diverse and
abundant wildlife population that would be an extensive reservoir for the FMD
virus and therefore,
a dangerous source of transmission.
Bioterrorism is a large threat to the economy of both countries, with the U.S.’s large export industry at a higher risk. On the other hand, Chile’s method of serological screening, allows for a greater potential for a bioterroist attack as they only test for serotypes A, O, and C; and an introduction of any other serotype may not be detected. This was exemplified as the last two outbreaks in Chile were due to illegal contraband entering the country, which continues to be the most difficult to control.