What is the primary mission of APHIS VS?

The primary mission of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Veterinary Services (APHIS VS) is to promote animal health and eliminate diseases. This focus is essential for ensuring both the health of domestic and wild animal populations and for protecting public health. By addressing animal health issues, APHIS VS works to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases—those that can be transmitted from animals to humans—thereby safeguarding the health of communities and ecosystems.

Additionally, promoting animal health includes surveillance, diagnostics, and disease eradication programs. These efforts help maintain the overall productivity and welfare of livestock and wildlife, which are crucial for food security and agriculture. The mission aligns with broader global health initiatives aimed at eradicating infectious diseases and improving the resilience of animal populations against outbreaks.

In contrast to other choices, which have a more narrow scope, the mission of APHIS VS encompasses a comprehensive approach to veterinary health, making the promotion of animal health and disease elimination the cornerstone of its responsibilities.