The epizootiology of the vesicular stomatitis viruses: a reappraisal

ABSTRACT

The pattern of epizootics caused by vesicular stomatitis viruses is examined, together with relevant laboratory evidence. The hypothesis that these viruses are arthropod-borne is examined and found wanting. The hypothesis is advanced that the pasture is the basic epizootiologic unit. The virus source is thought to be passive in or on the soil or vegetation and present in the pasture before outbreaks. Neither livestock nor rodents are regarded as essential for the life cycle of VS viruses (AU)