The Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM) announced in a statement yesterday new import restrictions on poultry products from several regions affected by the highly pathogenic avian influenza.
According to the bureau, outbreaks have been reported in multiple locations, including Bolívar Partido Province in Argentina, Eure Départment in France, the Harz region of the state of Lower Saxony in northern Germany, Perugia Province of the region of Umbria in Italy, and the town of Nowy Tomyśl in Poland.
Poultry meat and related products from these areas will not be approved for import into Macau, the statement noted, adding that under current regulations, all fresh and live food products must be declared and undergo mandatory inspection and quarantine upon import.
Moreover, local authorities will verify health certificates issued by the relevant authorities at the place of origin to ensure that products come from non-affected areas and are safe for consumption, the statement noted, pointing out that once an outbreak occurs in a particular region, the local authorities will not issue the required health certification, meaning such products no longer meet Macau’s import requirements.
The bureau added that it will continue to monitor global developments in animal disease outbreaks based on updates from the Paris-based World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and implement corresponding preventive measures.
Local importers have been notified of the situation, and the authorities will continue to strictly inspect poultry products entering and being sold in Macau, the statement said, adding that it will maintain strict checks on imported fresh food to safeguard public health and ensure food safety in Macau.
Avian influenza, commonly known as avian flu, is defined by the WOAH as a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can also infect other species, including humans. The disease is caused by influenza viruses that can circulate among wild birds and domesticated poultry.
Avian influenza is caused by various subtypes of the influenza A virus. It spread through direct contact with infected birds, contaminated surfaces, or through the air in areas with high bird populations. Symptoms in birds can range from mild to severe, including respiratory distress, decreased egg production, and high mortality rates, according to the WOAH.
This 2024 infographic downloaded from Facebook yesterday shows the various symptoms of avian influenza. – Photo courtesy: Springdale Health Department, Ohio
