What does NSIS require establishment personnel to do if they suspect an animal or carcass has a reportable or foreign animal disease?

• A. Quarantine the line for 24 hours
• B. Notify FSIS inspectors immediately
• C. Ignore until after inspection
• D. Report to local authorities only

Answer: (B)

When there’s suspicion of a reportable or foreign animal disease, the establishments must alert the federal inspectors on site or the district office immediately. This prompt notice ensures a rapid, coordinated response to prevent the disease from spreading through animals or products and to protect animal and public health. The establishment does not have authority to quarantine unilaterally, and delaying or ignoring the issue would jeopardize safety and compliance. Notifying local authorities alone isn’t sufficient, because federal oversight and guidance from FSIS are required to manage such diseases and coordinate with other agencies as needed.