Which organization is the correct point of contact for reporting suspected FAD in the United States?

• A. The FDA
• B. FSIS
• C. SAHO or ADD
• D. CDC

Answer: (C)

Suspected foreign animal disease is managed through the veterinary authority in each state. The best first contact is the State Animal Health Official, usually the state veterinarian, who coordinates the official response and diagnostic workups. In many systems, the Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory serves as a key partner for collecting and testing samples and helping with confirmation. Together, these channels ensure rapid, proper reporting and escalation to national veterinary services as needed. Federal agencies like the FDA, FSIS, or CDC aren’t the primary points of contact for reporting suspected FAD; they come into play later if human health, food safety, or broader public health issues arise.