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

What defines a disease with increasing incidence that poses significant health impacts?

1. Zoonotic

2. Exotic

3. Emerging

4. Transboundary

The correct answer is: Emerging

A disease classified as emerging is characterized by an increasing incidence and poses significant health impacts on populations. Emerging diseases often arise due to various factors, including ecological changes, increased human-animal interactions, or changes in disease transmission dynamics. This definition encompasses new diseases that have recently appeared in a population or a previously known disease that has shown new characteristics, such as a change in its transmission vectors or increased virulence. In a global context, emerging diseases are frequently linked to zoonotic pathogens, but not all emerging diseases are zoonotic by nature. While exotic diseases are those not typically found in a region, and transboundary diseases refer to those crossing national borders, neither of these terms captures the essence of a disease that is newly increasing in incidence and causing significant health threats. Thus, the classification as an emerging disease reflects its current relevance in public health discussions and its potential for future impacts, making it the most appropriate choice.