The import of poultry, birds, and unprocessed avian products from Victoria to the United States has been restricted due to bird flu outbreaks. This restriction was imposed after bird flu was found on two farms in regional Victoria, leading to the euthanization of hundreds of thousands of birds. Additionally, a human case of H5N1 bird flu was reported in a child who had returned from India to Victoria.
The U.S. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) issued an import alert backdated to May 22, which will remain in effect until further notice. The alert specifies that commercial birds, avian hatching eggs, poultry, and certain fresh poultry products from Victoria are prohibited from entering the U.S. due to the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza in domestic birds.
Processed avian products and byproducts from Victoria can still be imported with an APHIS import permit and government certification confirming treatment according to regulations. Importation of pet and zoo birds, pigeons, and doves is allowed with a permit and subject to a 30-day quarantine.
Following the discovery of the H7N3 strain of avian influenza in Meredith and the H7N9 strain in Terang, movement controls and housing requirements for birds have been implemented in these areas. The properties are under quarantine, and all poultry will be disposed of to clear the infection. Failure to comply with the new restrictions will result in penalties.
While the housing requirement aims to reduce the risk of avian influenza spread, it does not eliminate the possibility entirely. Chief Veterinarian Graeme Cooke emphasized the importance of separating birds from wild birds carrying the disease, and reassured the public that supermarket eggs and chicken are safe to consume.
Bird flu is caused by influenza type A viruses that typically infect birds, particularly waterfowl and shorebirds. Surveillance and biosecurity measures are crucial to control virus outbreaks, as avian influenza can mutate from low pathogenicity to high pathogenicity. Chickens are highly susceptible to bird flu, with the potential for rapid spread within a flock.
It is rare for bird flu to transmit to humans, with limited cases reported globally. The recent detection of H5N1 in a returned traveler in Victoria serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and reporting sick or dying birds to authorities. Please rewrite your statement.
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