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

What term describes infectious disease transmitted between animals and humans?

1. Zoonotic

2. Exotic

3. Emerging

4. Transboundary

The correct answer is: Zoonotic

The term "zoonotic" specifically refers to infectious diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans. This category encompasses a wide range of diseases caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi, which can leap from animal hosts to human populations, leading to illness in humans. Understanding zoonotic diseases is crucial for public health and veterinary medicine, as these diseases can impact both animal and human health, making surveillance and prevention strategies vital. In contrast, "exotic" typically describes diseases that are not native to a region and often refer to pathogens introduced from other geographical locations, which does not specifically indicate a transmission pathway between animals and humans. "Emerging" relates to diseases that are newly recognized or rapidly increasing in incidence, but it does not imply a specific transmission route. Lastly, "transboundary" describes diseases that cross national borders, but again, this term does not specifically denote the ability to be transmitted between animals and humans. Thus, "zoonotic" is the most precise term to use in the context of diseases that can affect both populations.