[9] It is believed that RYMV has begun to spread since the introduction of the exotic rice (Oryza sativa) from Asia into the African continent.

[11] As the infection grows the spots expand parallel to leaf veins and appear as yellow or orange streaks; these can vary in width, but can be continuous up to 10 cm.

[12] The virus is transmissible by animals, by wind-mediated leaf contact, and by abiotic factors (e.g. irrigation water).

[8] A few rice cultivars exhibit a high resistance to RYMV characterized by an absence of symptoms and no viral detection.

[9][15][16] Using nursery sites which haven't been infected previously or direct sowing in the field can also help prevent the spread of the virus.

[17] CABI recommends planting the crop as early as possible can avoid the peak period of insect vectors of the virus.

In addition, synchronising the planting in different fields can prevent the virus from spreading to younger crops.

[11][17] RYMV will completely kill susceptible varieties; if detected, removing infected plants and destroying them can prevent further spread.

As of 2019[update] RYMV is still considered an "emerging" disease because there is still a great deal of range expansion ongoing and expected in the future.

Text taken from PMDG: Green List - Rice Yellow Mottle Virus​, Plantwise, CABI.

Text taken from Plantwise Factsheets for Farmers: Rice yellow mottle (Ikivejuru)​, Joelle Kajuga, Germain Nkima, CABI.

Text taken from PMDG: Rice Yellow Mottle virus - Rwanda​, J. Chrysostome Muhigirwa & Germain Nkima, CABI.

Text taken from PMDG: Rice Yellow Mottle Virus - Ghana​, E. Moses, F. C. Brentu & F.A.