Restrictions set re. bird flu

SEATTLE — Travelers originating in or transiting through British Columbia, Canada, before entering the United States should be aware that due to a confirmed outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has notified U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) of immediate restrictions on the importation of certain bird and poultry products and live birds from a control zone in southern British Columbia.

All of the Canadian Province of British Columbia south of Highway 16 has been designated an HPAI control zone (control zone.) The HPAI restrictions apply to goods originating in or transiting through the control zone before entering the United States.

Effective immediately, the following avian and/or poultry products originating in or transiting through the control zone are prohibited: uncooked chicken, turkey, duck, or goose; raw eggs; live birds; hatching eggs; composted manure; and meat from hunter-harvested birds.

Commercially packaged, shelf-stable poultry, such as canned chicken, is allowed. Also, thoroughly cooked poultry, including deli turkey or chicken, are permitted, as are hard-boiled eggs.

Pet food made in Canada containing turkey, chicken, duck, or goose must be commercially packaged and in the original container, is limited to a total weight of 50 pounds, and if the package is opened, then the pet must be present in the vehicle.

Canadian pet birds, including U.S.-origin pet birds, originating from outside the control zone can enter the U.S. from Canada through a land border port, but only with a valid APHIS-issued import permit, and port inspection.

Canadian pet birds, including U.S.-origin pet birds, originating from or transiting the control zone and arriving at a U.S. land border port of entry, must be accompanied by a valid USDA APHIS Import Permit, Canada Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) endorsed health certificate, and must undergo a 30-day quarantine.

Canadian pet birds, including U.S.-origin pet birds, from British Columbia, entering the United States by air or ocean, require a permit from APHIS Veterinary Services.

Additional information on restrictions due to avian influenza can be found on the APHIS website here.

Travelers intending to bring food products into the U.S. from Canada are encouraged to learn which products are allowed and which are prohibited, before they travel. Please visit the CBP’s web site travel section here.