Which agency regulates the importation of dogs, cats, monkeys and other animals that can carry zoonotic diseases?

Which agency regulates the importation of dogs, cats, monkeys and other animals that can carry zoonotic diseases?

• A. CDC
• B. APHIS
• C. DHS
• D. FDA

Answer: (A)

The key idea is protecting human health by controlling the entry of animals that could carry diseases transmissible to people. The agency responsible for this in the import context is the CDC, because it governs the importation of dogs, cats, monkeys and other animals with a potential to carry zoonotic pathogens. They issue permits, require health certificates and vaccinations, and sometimes impose quarantine to prevent diseases like rabies and other zoonoses from entering the country. While other agencies play important roles—APHIS focuses on animal health and preventing animal diseases, DHS handles border security, and FDA regulates certain products—the authority most directly tied to reducing human disease risk from imported animals is the CDC.

The key idea is protecting human health by controlling the entry of animals that could carry diseases transmissible to people. The agency responsible for this in the import context is the CDC, because it governs the importation of dogs, cats, monkeys and other animals with a potential to carry zoonotic pathogens. They issue permits, require health certificates and vaccinations, and sometimes impose quarantine to prevent diseases like rabies and other zoonoses from entering the country. While other agencies play important roles—APHIS focuses on animal health and preventing animal diseases, DHS handles border security, and FDA regulates certain products—the authority most directly tied to reducing human disease risk from imported animals is the CDC.