Temporary ban on live poultry, hatching eggs imports continues

To safeguard against the introduction of avian influenza H5N1—more commonly known as bird flu—to the CNMI, a temporary ban on the importation of live poultry and hatching eggs from the mainland U.S. and foreign countries is being continued.

Exceptions may be granted for poultry imports originating from Hawaii and Guam, subject to thorough review and clearance by the Department of Land and Natural Resources Animal Health division and issuance of an entry permit.

Bird flu presents a significant concern as it poses risks not only to avian populations but also to humans and other animals. This illness is typically found in large-scale poultry farms. Recent data from the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) revealed a notable increase in H5N1 cases across the mainland U.S., with over 3 million affected birds reported in confirmed infected flocks. In response, stringent biosecurity measures are being continued to protect our borders and mitigate the spread of this highly contagious virus.

For information regarding the necessary documents for clearance and the issuance of an entry permit for live poultry and hatching eggs imported from Hawaii, please contact the DLNR Animal Health division.

What can you do? Remain vigilant. If you raise poultry, closely monitor their health and promptly report any signs of illness or unexplained deaths to the DLNR Animal Health division. Reports can be submitted via email at Lauren.Cabrera.dlnr@gmail.com or by phone at (670) 256-3319. If you come across sick or deceased wild birds, report these instances to the Department of Fish and Wildlife. (PR)