[medical citation needed] CAEV cannot be transmitted to humans, including through the consumption of milk from an infected goat.

[2][4] CAEV adversely affects the immune system of its host, causing a disease known as caprine arthritis encephalitis.

Common symptoms resulting from CAEV infection include arthritis, pneumonia, indurative mastitis, and encephalitis.

Goats that do show symptoms may display swollen knee or carpal joints, lose body condition, and develop a rough hair coat.

Pregnant and nursing goats will display a "hard udder", which is firm and swollen, and produce little milk.