July 27, 2024

Hong Kong suspends poultry imports from US regions amid avian influenza outbreaks

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) in Hong Kong has announced the suspension of imports of poultry meat and products, including eggs, from specific regions in the US, following recent outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in certain US counties, aviNews reported.

According to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza have been reported in Ionia County, Michigan, and Parmer County, Texas, US. These outbreaks have prompted concerns about the potential spread of the virus through poultry products, leading Hong Kong authorities to take immediate measures.

In response to the WOAH notifications, the CFS has instructed traders to halt imports from the affected US regions. By suspending imports from the affected areas, the CFS aims to prevent the introduction of avian influenza into the local poultry population and minimise risks to human health.

The CFS carried out a detailed risk assessment, considering factors such as the severity of the outbreaks, transmission risks, and potential impacts on Hong Kong's population. The decision was made based on scientific evidence and expert advice.

Last year, Hong Kong imported approximately 37,770 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat and around 83.84 million poultry eggs from the US.

The CFS continues to maintain active communication with US authorities regarding the avian influenza outbreaks.

-      aviNews