A Veterinarian’s Legal Responsibilities
Reportable diseases are regulated in Illinois by state and federal law. The statutes and their regulations are specific, with two separate agencies in Illinois held responsible for the adherence of these laws. The Department of Public Health is responsible for cases involving human exposure while reportable animal diseases are handled through the Department of Agriculture.
It is important not only to know how to recognize the symptoms and diagnose the diseases, but it is essential to know where and how to report them.