The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) has announced restrictions on the import of cattle from areas with avian influenza cases on the mainland. The restrictions come in response to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) detections in livestock in several states, including Texas, Kansas, New Mexico, Idaho, Ohio, and Michigan.
In a statement, Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture, emphasized the importance of these restrictions in protecting Hawai‘i's livestock: "The Animal Disease Control Branch has been closely monitoring this situation and is establishing these restrictions to help protect Hawai‘i’s livestock."
Hurd also reassured the public that as of now, no cases of HPAI have been detected in birds, poultry, livestock, or other animal species in Hawai‘i, providing some relief amidst the growing concerns over the spread of the disease.
The restrictions, effective as of April 5, 2024, include the requirement for health certificates for imported cattle to confirm that they do not originate from premises with confirmed HPAI cases. Additionally, eligible cattle from affected states must be inspected within 72 hours of shipment and be free of signs of HPAI infection.
The HDOA is taking proactive measures to mitigate the risk of HPAI spreading to Hawai‘i's livestock population. The department already restricts the import of poultry and birds from areas with significant HPAI outbreaks, ensuring a vigilant approach to safeguarding the state's agricultural industry.
For more information on avian influenza and the import restrictions, individuals are encouraged to visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture's website.
The HDOA remains committed to upholding a discrimination-free environment and providing access to all individuals, regardless of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability, as stated on their official website.