A temporary ban has been placed on the importation of all commercial imports of poultry, hatching eggs and fresh, frozen or chilled poultry products into St Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation, Industry and Labour through the Animal Health and Production Division made the decision due to ongoing outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N8 in the United Kingdom (UK), an advisory said.

“An immediate ban has also been enforced on the importation of personal imports of live birds, feathers and foods containing poultry products.

“All commercial imports of cooked poultry products from the UK may continue provided that they are accompanied by an appropriate veterinary export health certificate,” the advisory said.

The ban will remain in effect until further notice.