Which agency conducted the PED root-cause investigation?

• A. CDC
• B. WHO
• C. EPA
• D. USDA-APHIS

Answer: (D)

When unraveling how a livestock disease like PED spread, the investigation of the underlying causes is led by the agency that handles animal health and movement controls. For PED in pigs, that authority lies with USDA-APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service). They conduct surveillance, trace animal movements, assess farm biosecurity, and map transmission pathways to pinpoint what allowed the outbreak to occur and propagate. From there, they implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence, such as tightening biosecurity measures, reviewing feed and transport practices, and coordinating with state veterinarians and industry partners. The other agencies—CDC, WHO, and EPA—focus on human health, international health guidance, and environmental issues, respectively, and, while they may contribute in broader contexts, they are not the lead for a livestock disease outbreak investigation.