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October 25, 2005
Subject:
Import Restrictions on Birds from H5N1 Countries-Update
Background: Prompted by outbreaks of
avian flu (H5N1 subtype), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced
a ban on the importation of birds, and their parts and products, from
eight Southeast Asian countries in 2004. Since that time, the restrictions
have been continually updated as additional countries confirm the presence
of H5N1.
As one of the agencies authorized to regulate the import and export of
wildlife and wildlife products, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will
continue to assist in enforcing these restrictions.
Action: These restrictions apply to all
live birds including pets, as well as bird parts and products. The wildlife
trade community should be aware of the changing nature of these restrictions.
For additional information on pet birds and commercial shipments (including
zoological display, research, and performing birds), contact the
USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s National Center
for Import and Export at (301) 734-3277 or visit
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?navid=AVIAN_INFLUENZA&navtype=SU.
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