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

What is the primary reason for the devastating effect of HPAI or vND diagnoses in the U.S.?

1. Delay in test results allows for disease spread

2. Costly trade implications and contagious nature of diseases

3. Only few birds show symptoms

4. No preventive measures are usable

The correct answer is: Costly trade implications and contagious nature of diseases

The primary reason for the devastating effect of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) or virulent Newcastle disease (vND) diagnoses in the U.S. revolves around the costly trade implications and the contagious nature of these diseases. When HPAI or vND are detected, there are significant economic repercussions due to trade restrictions. Many countries implement bans on imports of poultry and related products from regions where these outbreaks occur, which can devastate the local poultry industry. Additionally, the contagious nature of these diseases makes them difficult to control once introduced into a flock, leading to rapid spread. The financial ramifications extend not only to direct losses in the affected farms but also to the broader agricultural economy, affecting supply chains and international markets. The other aspects of the situation, such as delays in testing or the presentation of symptoms in birds, while relevant, are secondary to the overarching economic impact of disease spread and trade limitations. Preventive measures do exist but are not foolproof or entirely effective, and the symptomatology often complicates early detection and management efforts. Therefore, the interplay of contagiousness and the significant economic fallout from trade restrictions is the most critical factor explaining the severity of these animal diseases.