HPAI, also known as bird flu, continues to be detected in U.S. dairy cattle, with cases now reported in multiple states. We advise against taking any Canadian cattle—dairy or beef—to U.S. agricultural exhibitions or fairs at this time. These events, especially those involving both cattle and poultry, may increase the risk of introducing and spreading the virus in Canada.
To protect your cattle – dairy or beef – from HPAI, we do not recommend showing them at exhibitions. This particularly applies if there are cattle or poultry participating from states or regions where HPAI in cattle has been detected. Find out where HPAI has been detected in livestock on the U.S. Department of Agriculture's website.
Preventing the spread of HPAI to Canadian cattle
HPAI has serious impacts on both animal and public health. While HPAI has not yet been detected in Canadian cattle, it continues to spread in the U.S., increasing the risk of introduction through cross-border events or contact with infected animals.
Preventing HPAI from entering Canada is critical. Limiting exposure at agricultural exhibitions, fairs or other events helps protect dairy and beef cattle and other susceptible animals. It also reduces the potential risk of transmission to humans. While health is the primary concern, outbreaks also have economic consequences for Canadian farms and the broader food system.
If you still choose to participate
Before you leave Canada
American agricultural exhibitions may have testing requirements prior to entry of cattle given the current situation. Requirements vary by state and exhibition. Contact exhibition organizers before departure to confirm what is required.
Requirements for all cattle returning to Canada
- A United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) export certificate is required for all Canadian cattle that are in the U.S. for less than 60 days
- The USDA-APHIS certificate is available at: Export certification statements for Canadian origin cattle (all breeds and end uses) in United States for less than 60 days returning to Canada (PDF)
- Cattle must remain in the U.S. for 60 days if they have:
- been on a premises (including exhibition sites) where avian influenza or any other contagious disease that cattle can contract was detected in the past 60 days or
- been exposed to such diseases
Complete details: Requirements for return to Canada
Additional measures for dairy cattle returning to Canada
- Isolation as per the Biosecurity for Canadian Dairy Farms: National Standard A formal quarantine may be issued if biosecurity measures are not sufficient to prevent potential spread of disease
- A bulk tank test and testing of all imported dairy cattle (including heifers) between 14 to 21 days after return, conducted by your veterinarian
- Results must be shared with your CFIA district office
- If negative results are obtained the animal can be re-integrated into the herd
- If results are not received in a timely manner, we will follow up and may conduct a disease investigation
- A second bulk tank test 30 days after reintegration is recommended
For guidance on how to collect and submit samples to a Canadian Animal Health Surveillance Network (CAHSN) lab consult the HPAI in cattle: Guidance for Private Veterinarians
For more details refer to the Letter for Dairy Cattle Exporters
For beef cattle returning to Canada
- It is recommended to isolate returning animal for 21 days as per the Canadian Beef Cattle On-Farm Biosecurity Standard
More details refer to the Letter for Beef Cattle Exporters
Protecting your herd from avian influenza
While beef and dairy cattle are the same species, the risk of contracting HPAI is currently higher for dairy cattle. While beef cattle are likely susceptible, the differences in production and management practices, such as the use of milking equipment, higher density housing and more contact with humans, meaning there is an increased transmission potential for dairy herds.
It is the responsibility of the owner to understand the requirements and to ensure the appropriate documents and requirements are met. Practicing good biosecurity is the best way to prevent the spread of animal diseases, including HPAI.
If you suspect HPAI in your cattle or any other animals, you must report it immediately to your local CFIA office or district veterinarian under the Health of Animals Act.
Additional information
- Notice to industry: Additional certification for Canadian cattle returning from the United States after a stay of less than 60 days
- Biosecurity recommendations for Canadian fairs and exhibits
- Recommendations to minimize influenza transmission at dairy cattle livestock exhibitions (USDA APHIS) (PDF)
- Trade implications for HPAI in dairy cattle Import and export implications for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in dairy cattle
- Guidance for people handling cattle to prevent the spread of HPAI in cattle