June 17, 2010: The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has removed temporary brucellosis testing requirements for certain cattle and bison from British Columbia.
Sexually intact cattle and bison that have resided in B.C. since March 25, 2010, are no longer required to test negative for brucellosis prior to export to the U.S.
The restrictions were put in place after three beef cows originating from two B.C. farms were suspected of having brucellosis, based on tests done by the USDA during routine slaughter testing. A subsequent and thorough investigation by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) did not identify the presence of brucellosis in the animals or on the two farms. All cattle herds in Canada remain officially free of brucellosis.
The CFIA wishes to thank cattle producers in B.C. for their extensive cooperation and patience during this investigation.
In all cases where federally-reportable diseases are suspected or confirmed, the goal is to minimize disruptions to producers, while respecting Canada's domestic and international obligations to take appropriate and prudent control measures. These measures are critical for protecting the health of Canadian livestock and maintaining market access.
For more information on brucellosis and Canada's disease control measures, call the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 or visit www.inspection.gc.ca.
