Transboundary Emerging and Exotic Animal Disease/ Exotic Animal Disease Practice Exam

How can cleaning and disinfection of HPAI and virulent Newcastle's disease (vND) be effectively achieved?

1. Only with specialized disinfectants

2. Using widely available disinfectants if organic material is controlled

3. By utilizing simple soap and water

4. Disinfection is not necessary for these viruses

The correct answer is: Using widely available disinfectants if organic material is controlled

The effectiveness of cleaning and disinfection in combating High Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and virulent Newcastle disease (vND) largely relies on controlling organic material present in the environment prior to applying disinfectants. Widely available disinfectants can indeed be effective when used in conjunction with proper cleaning protocols that eliminate organic debris, which can shield pathogens from disinfectants and limit their efficacy. Cleaning removes physical contaminants and reduces the overall microbial load, which is essential when dealing with highly infectious viruses like HPAI and vND. After cleaning, the application of disinfectants can be more effective, as these agents are designed to kill remaining pathogens on surfaces. Although specialized disinfectants have their place, many common disinfectants, when applied correctly in the absence of excessive organic matter, can also adequately address the disinfection needs for these diseases. Utilizing simple soap and water may help remove organic material but does not provide the virucidal properties necessary to kill HPAI or vND. Additionally, suggesting that disinfection is unnecessary undermines the critical nature of biosecurity measures required to prevent the spread of these serious pathogens.