USDA APHIS VETS professionals are noted for their innovation and teamwork in helping the U.S. Agricultural community deal with tough animal health issues. It's multidisciplinary staff assists in safeguarding American Agriculture from domestic and foreign animal diseases and pests. Disciplines include economists, veterinarians, spatial analysts, statisticians, epidemiologists, computer specialists, and mathematicians, to name a few. These professionals determine the likelihood and consequences of a foreign animal disease outbreak; recommend options for reducing risk of acquiring animal disease as a result of international trade; conduct pathways analyses and epidemiologic studies to control domestic and foreign animal disease outbreaks; coordinate and integrate the national animal health surveillance system; develop and support information technology solutions, and participate in the national emergency responses to foreign animal disease incursions.