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

Which statement about vesicular exanthema of swine is NOT true?

1. It has been eradicated globally.

2. The reservoir may have included a marine animal.

3. It is clinically distinct from other vesicular diseases.

4. It is caused by a calicivirus.

The correct answer is: It is clinically distinct from other vesicular diseases.

Vesicular exanthema of swine is indeed caused by a calicivirus, and it has a historical context involving marine animals as potential reservoirs, particularly sea lions. The disease can present with clinical signs that resemble those of other vesicular diseases, such as foot-and-mouth disease and swine vesicular disease, making it challenging to distinguish based solely on clinical presentation. Therefore, stating that it is clinically distinct from other vesicular diseases is incorrect, since there can be significant overlap in symptoms. Regarding the other statements: the fact that it has been eradicated globally highlights successful disease management efforts, and the association with marine animals provides insight into the complexity of disease reservoirs. Recognizing these facts is crucial for understanding the epidemiology and management of vesicular exanthema in swine.