Disease traceability refers to the ability to track the movement of animals from one location to another to quickly identify the source, spread, and risk of animal diseases. This system plays a critical role in protecting both animal and public health, minimizing the impact of outbreaks, and maintaining consumer confidence in the food supply.
In Arkansas, disease traceability is a key responsibility of the State Veterinarian at the Arkansas Department of Agriculture.
The State Veterinarian:
- Monitors trends in reportable animal diseases
- Tracks animal movement across and within state lines
- Responds to emergency animal disease events
- Coordinates with federal and state partners to control and eradicate diseases in poultry and livestock
- Communicates with veterinarians and the public to provide guidance on animal health concerns
Disease traceability efforts help ensure swift response to disease outbreaks, protect the economic viability of Arkansas’s livestock and poultry industries, and support the safety of our nation’s food system.