Update regarding avian influenza and CFIA permits for poultry samples

Andrew Brooks, Tim Pasma

Animal Health Laboratory, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON. 

AHL Newsletter 2025;29(1):20.

A reminder to all AHL clients that since early January 2025, the AHL has been located within a primary control zone instituted by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) in response to an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza on a premises in the Guelph area.

As a result, a CFIA general control permit must accompany all poultry samples or carcasses that are submitted to the AHL for diagnostic testing. Submissions from pet birds and wildlife are exempt. Submissions to the AHL originating from other veterinary diagnostic laboratories are also exempt.

A CFIA general control permit can be accessed here: https://inspection.canada.ca/en/about-cfia/find-form/cfia-acia-5752. Detailed instructions for completing the permit are also posted on the AHL website: https://www.uoguelph.ca/ahl/news/2025/01/notice-shipping-avian-samples-ahl.

Once you receive your approved permit, please include it with each AHL submission – a printed copy may be included with your submission package, or it may be emailed to specroom@uoguelph.ca.

The requirement for a CFIA general control permit will remain in effect until the control zone is revoked by CFIA. AHL will notify clients as soon as the control zone is revoked and the movement permit is no longer required.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding permits, please contact CFIA at cfia.ontmovementlicandpermits-deplacementlicenceetpermis.acia@inspection.gc.ca