The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is advising cattle producers to not travel to the United States for upcoming agricultural shows, or participate in them, due to the risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) south of the border.
Multiple states have reported outbreaks of HPAI among dairy cattle since March of this year. To date, there have been no confirmed cases of HPAI in Canadian cattle.
The CFIA acknowledges the “traditional and business significance of attending these events” for Canadian livestock producers, but given the current circumstances it “may pose a risk of introducing and spreading the virus into Canada and may negatively impact the health” of animals.
But if cattle producers still choose to travel to the United States, a certificate for all Canadian cattle – beef or dairy – that is in the U.S. for less than 60 days is required. Canadian producers are also advised to check with U.S. agricultural event organizers of what’s required prior to entry, such as testing requirements.
If Canadian cattle have resided on a premises, including an ag exhibition site, where HPAI or any other contagious disease that cattle can contract, has been detected within the last 60 days, or have been exposed to these diseases, they have to stay in the U.S. for 60 days, states the CFIA.
There are a number of measures to take when returning to Canada, such as filling out forms and providing certification; those details can be found on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website. The CFIA recommends isolating cows for 21 days after their return, as per the the Canadian Beef Cattle On-Farm Biosecurity Standard, and having them tested by a veterinarian and sharing those results with the Agency.
If you suspect your herd has HPAI, report it immediately to your local CFIA office or district veterinarian.