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

Is it true that intensive and backyard animal production can both contribute to disease emergence and reemergence?

1. True

2. False

3. Only intensive production

4. Only backyard production

The correct answer is: True

The assertion that both intensive and backyard animal production can contribute to disease emergence and reemergence is accurate. Intensive animal production systems, characterized by high stocking densities, often create ideal conditions for the rapid spread of infectious diseases among animals. The close proximity of many animals can facilitate the transmission of pathogens, and the typical practices in such systems may involve the use of antibiotics and other interventions that can lead to antibiotic resistance and the emergence of new strains of pathogens. On the other hand, backyard animal production systems, which may involve smaller numbers of animals raised in close quarters, can also create risks for disease emergence. These systems are often less regulated, and biosecurity measures may be inadequate. Furthermore, the mixing of different species and the introduction of animals from various sources can enhance the risk of spreading pathogens that are not typically found in the local environment. Both systems have unique characteristics that make them susceptible to disease risks, and their interactions with wildlife and human populations can further exacerbate these issues, leading to the emergence or reemergence of diseases. Thus, the correct answer is that it is true that both intensive and backyard animal production can contribute to disease emergence and reemergence.