Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. has imposed a temporary ban on the importation of domestic and wild birds, as well as poultry products, from Maryland and Missouri following multiple outbreaks of bird flu.

Sec. Tiu Laurel stated that the rapid spread of H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in the US necessitated broader trade restrictions to safeguard local poultry populations. “The quick escalation of bird flu cases in the U.S. since its first detection demands a more extensive coverage of trade restrictions to prevent the entry of the virus,” he explained.

The outbreaks in Maryland and Missouri were reported on January 23 by the Deputy Administrator and Chief Veterinary Officer of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. A total of 89 flocks were tested and were shown to be positive for bird flu. A total 13.2 million birds are affected in confirmed infected premises.

Sec. Tiu Laurel signed Memorandum Order 07 on February 4, 2025 which temporarily halts the importation of domestic and wild birds, as well as poultry products like meat, eggs, day-old chicks, and semen from the affected states. The order also suspends the issuance of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances for these commodities.

However, shipments already in transit, or those accepted at port, will be allowed entry provided they were slaughtered or produced at least 14 days before the first reported outbreak. The first case in Maryland was detected on January 14, while Missouri reported its outbreak on January 14.

Shipments that fail to meet these conditions will be either returned to the country of origin or disposed of. ### (Photo by Alan Jay Jacalan, DA-AFID)