True/False: If 30% of pens with cattle previously on feed for over 100 days are febrile, depressed, and have oral lesions, it could be FMD. You should call the animal health authorities and be aware that 'what you say and do matters'.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Maybe

Answer: (A)

Prompt recognition and rapid reporting of suspected high-consequence diseases in livestock is essential. A noticeable cluster where a significant proportion of cattle pens have fever, depression, and oral lesions can be compatible with foot-and-mouth disease, which is a reportable disease. Because FMD is highly contagious and carries serious trade and biosecurity implications, animal health authorities must be notified promptly to enable investigation and containment. The phrase 'what you say and do matters' reflects the need to follow established reporting protocols, communicate accurately, and implement appropriate biosecurity actions to prevent spread. Even if the diagnosis isn't confirmed, erring on the side of caution and reporting promptly helps protect other herds and markets. This makes the statement true.