How is VSV primarily spread?

How is VSV primarily spread?

• A. Direct contact with infected animals or contaminated objects
• B. Vectors
• C. Both direct contact and vectors
• D. Airborne transmission

Answer: (C)

Vesicular stomatitis virus spreads through two main routes: direct contact with infected animals or contaminated objects (such as equipment, handlers’ clothing, or vesicular fluid), and mechanical transmission by arthropod vectors, especially biting insects like black flies and biting midges. Airborne transmission is not a typical route in natural outbreaks. Because transmission can occur both from direct contact and via vectors, the best answer reflects that combined mode of spread.

Vesicular stomatitis virus spreads through two main routes: direct contact with infected animals or contaminated objects (such as equipment, handlers’ clothing, or vesicular fluid), and mechanical transmission by arthropod vectors, especially biting insects like black flies and biting midges. Airborne transmission is not a typical route in natural outbreaks. Because transmission can occur both from direct contact and via vectors, the best answer reflects that combined mode of spread.