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

What role does a veterinarian trained at the foreign animal disease diagnostics laboratory (FADDL) have?

1. Collect and submit samples for FADs

2. Perform general veterinary practices

3. Handle only emergency cases

4. Train other veterinarians

The correct answer is: Collect and submit samples for FADs

A veterinarian trained at the Foreign Animal Disease Diagnostics Laboratory (FADDL) plays a critical role in the collection and submission of samples for foreign animal diseases (FADs). This specialized training equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and gather appropriate specimens for accurate diagnosis of diseases that could impact animal and public health. Such expertise is essential in the early detection and control of FADs, facilitating timely intervention to prevent potential outbreaks. Their focus is primarily on FADs, which often require specific handling techniques and protocols that differ from general veterinary practice. While the collection of samples is vital, the role goes beyond simply gathering samples; it involves understanding the implications of FADs on agriculture, wildlife, and ecosystem health, which in turn assists in formulating effective response strategies. Other potential roles, such as performing general veterinary practices or handling only emergency cases, do not specifically align with the specialized function of addressing foreign animal diseases. Training other veterinarians could be a part of their responsibilities, but it isn't their core function at FADDL. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the essential focus on FAD sample collection and submission as the primary role of veterinarians in this specialized laboratory setting.