Which agency is associated with the NAHLN's outbreak detection and response goals?

• A. USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
• B. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• C. Environmental Protection Agency
• D. National Institutes of Health

Answer: (A)

NAHLN’s outbreak detection and response goals are led by the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. APHIS oversees animal health programs, surveillance networks, and diagnostic laboratory coordination to protect livestock, wildlife, and agriculture, making it the central authority for coordinating NAHLN activities. NAHLN operates as a network of state and federal veterinary labs that rapidly detect, confirm, and respond to animal disease threats, with APHIS providing the governance and support structure. The other agencies—focusing on human health (CDC), environmental protection (EPA), or biomedical research (NIH)—do not lead NAHLN’s animal health outbreak surveillance efforts.