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

What must happen before international trade can resume following a foreign animal disease outbreak?

1. All USDA-APHIS standards must be met

2. New clinical cases must not be identified for 30 days

3. All OIE standards for the disease must be met

4. USDA-APHIS must notify the OIE member countries

The correct answer is: All OIE standards for the disease must be met

For international trade to resume following a foreign animal disease outbreak, it is essential that all standards set by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) for the specific disease are met. The OIE has established guidelines and standards to manage animal health risks and ensure the safe trade of animals and animal products. Compliance with these guidelines is crucial as they provide a framework for determining whether a country can demonstrate its disease-free status and thus safely engage in international trade. Meeting OIE standards typically involves not only the absence of clinical cases but also the implementation of effective surveillance, control measures, and biosecurity protocols. This ensures not only that the outbreak is under control but also that the country can provide assurances to trading partners about the health status of its livestock and animal products. Meeting USDA-APHIS standards and notification to OIE member countries are important parts of the process, but they function within the broader context of OIE standards. Prioritizing OIE compliance aligns with international expectations and helps facilitate smoother negotiations and resumption of trade, as OIE is the recognized authority on animal health globally.