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

Which laboratory is recognized for confirming exotic disease diagnoses in the U.S.?

1. The National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL)

2. The National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN)

3. Certified Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories (CVDL)

4. The OIE Laboratories in Paris, France

The correct answer is: The National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL)

The National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) is the recognized laboratory in the U.S. for confirming exotic disease diagnoses. NVSL plays a critical role in veterinary diagnostics and is responsible for the diagnosis of animal diseases, including those that are classified as exotic or transboundary. It collaborates with state and federal agencies, providing essential services in epidemiology, research, and surveillance that help manage and contain outbreaks effectively. In contrast, while the National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) comprises various laboratories that enhance animal disease surveillance and diagnostics, the NVSL stands out as the primary authority for confirming exotic disease diagnoses at the national level. Certified Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories (CVDL) contribute to this process but do not hold the same level of recognition for confirming exotic diseases specifically. Lastly, OIE Laboratories in Paris, France, have international roles in animal health and disease monitoring but are not designated as the primary laboratory for confirming disease diagnoses within the U.S. Therefore, NVSL is uniquely positioned as the go-to facility for confirming exotic disease conditions domestically.