MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has reintroduced a temporary ban on the importation of domestic and wild birds, as well as poultry products, from South Dakota, United States, following a recent outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. explained that the ban, which covers items such as eggs, semen for artificial insemination, day-old chicks, and other poultry products, is a precautionary measure designed to safeguard the health of the local poultry industry.

“The local poultry industry is a multi-billion-peso business that spurs large investments, creates jobs, and helps ensure food security,” the Department said.

According to reports, US veterinary authorities confirmed several outbreaks of H5N1 avian influenza in South Dakota on December 17, affecting domestic birds. 

The presence of the virus was verified by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa.

Secretary Tiu Laurel noted that the ban was necessary to prevent the further spread of the virus.

At the same time, Secretary Tiu Laurel issued Memorandum Order No. 04 on Wednesday, instructing the Bureau of Animal Industry to suspend the processing and issuance of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances for birds and poultry products from South Dakota.

The order also mandates that veterinary quarantine officers and inspectors nationwide confiscate any affected commodities imported from South Dakota, with the exception of those already in transit or arriving after the issuance of the order. 

Poultry products must have been slaughtered on or before November 13 to be exempted from the ban, it said.

Heat-treated poultry products are also excluded from the restrictions.