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

What does the U.S. classical swine fever surveillance program primarily focus on?

1. Running serologic tests on all imported livestock

2. Testing tissue from targeted pig populations

3. Sampling all pigs sent to slaughter

4. Testing liver samples from all pigs

The correct answer is: Testing tissue from targeted pig populations

The U.S. classical swine fever surveillance program primarily focuses on testing tissue from targeted pig populations. This targeted approach is effective in monitoring and controlling the disease within specific populations that may be at higher risk for classical swine fever outbreaks. By concentrating on certain populations, such as those in areas where the disease is more likely to occur or where there have been previous cases, the program can efficiently gather data about the disease's presence or absence. This method allows for timely interventions and management strategies to prevent the spread of the virus, ensuring better protection of the overall swine population and the interests of the agricultural economy. In contrast, the other options would not effectively address the needs of the surveillance program. Running serologic tests on all imported livestock could create a significant logistical burden and may not be as targeted, leading to inefficiencies. Sampling all pigs sent to slaughter may miss disease detection in pigs that are not sent to slaughter or are in transit, while testing liver samples specifically from all pigs is too broad and impractical. The emphasis on targeted tissue testing allows for a focused and effective approach to disease surveillance in swine, making it the most strategic choice.