Mange is readily transmitted among social mammals. True or False?

Mange is readily transmitted among social mammals. True or False?

• A. False
• B. Rarely
• C. True
• D. Not applicable

Answer: (C)

Mange spreads readily in social mammals because the mites live on the skin and transfer mainly through close, direct contact during social interactions such as grooming, mating, and resting in close proximity. When individuals are in shared dens, burrows, or bedding, the mites can move from one animal to another with little effort. In dense social groups, contact rates are high, so an infestation in one member can quickly spread to others. While off-host survival is limited, the primary mode of transmission is direct contact within the group, making outbreaks common in social species. This is why the statement is true.

Mange spreads readily in social mammals because the mites live on the skin and transfer mainly through close, direct contact during social interactions such as grooming, mating, and resting in close proximity. When individuals are in shared dens, burrows, or bedding, the mites can move from one animal to another with little effort. In dense social groups, contact rates are high, so an infestation in one member can quickly spread to others. While off-host survival is limited, the primary mode of transmission is direct contact within the group, making outbreaks common in social species. This is why the statement is true.