When should you contact a state animal health official if FMD is suspected?

• A. At the end of the day when you make the rest of your calls
• B. Immediately, the state animal health official will advise you what to do next; he/she may have you stay at the farm until the FADD arrives.
• C. Not until you get a definitive diagnosis; you don't want to waste their time
• D. Immediately, but then continue on to your next appointment

Answer: (B)

Immediate notification to the state animal health official is essential when FMD is suspected because this disease is highly contagious and containment needs to start right away. The official will guide the next steps and coordinate the response, which may include having you stay at the farm until responders arrive to protect animals and preserve evidence. Delaying reporting until a definitive diagnosis risks rapid spread and noncompliance with required reporting procedures, and trying to continue with other appointments without following official directions can undermine containment efforts. So reporting immediately and then following the official’s instructions is the correct course.