MODES OF INTR0DUCTION OF EXOTIC ANIMAL DISEASE AGENTS
Katharine M. Kurkjian, Class of 2003, The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine
Susan E. Little, DVM, PhD, The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine

Introduction

This learning module describes different modes of introduction of exotic diseases of animals. Specific examples are provided to illustrate concepts related to the introduction and transmission of exotic diseases. As you have already seen, introduction of exotic diseases of animals into the US could have potentially disastrous effects on animal health, human health, and the economy. The overall objective of this module is to enhance your understanding of potential routes of movement of these diseases. Understanding how these disease agents are transmitted will better prepare you for your essential role in preventing their introduction.

Upon completion of this module, the student will:

• be familiar with common terms used to describe infectious disease transmission characteristics.
• recognize and appreciate the different routes of infection of disease agents and how these routes contribute to the likelihood of introduction of a given pathogen.
• understand different routes for unintentional or accidental introduction of exotic diseases of animals, including the role of fomites, vectors, infected animals, animal products, and the potential for emergence of new diseases or disease variants.
• understand the role of intentional disease introduction through bioterrorism or agroterrorism in transmission of exotic diseases of animals to new areas.

Part I

Definitions for understanding exotic disease introduction

Infectious diseases considered to pose a threat for introduction

Routes of transmission of infectious diseases agents

Transmission dynamics within biological vector populations

Characteristics of Infectious Disease Agents that Influence Potential for Introduction

Part II

Fomites and Introduction of Foot and Mouth Disease

Vectors and Introduction of West Nile Virus

Infected Animals and Introduction of Elaphostrongylus rangiferi

Animal Products and Introduction of African Swine Fever

Emergence of New Diseases and Development of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy

Bioterrorism and the Use of Anthrax in World War I

Biological Agents

Acknowledgements

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