Uzbekistan Temporarily Bans Import of Animals and Poultry from India over Nipah Virus

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan has temporarily suspended the import of animals and poultry from India due to the threat of the deadly Nipah virus. The decision to impose these temporary restrictions was signed by the country’s Chief State Veterinary Inspector.

Since January 29, the ban covers the import of live animals and poultry from all regions of India, as well as animal-origin products from the Indian state of West Bengal, except in cases of international transit. Import approvals from epidemiologically safe areas will be considered individually by the State Veterinary Service.

According to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the situation in West Bengal is assessed as unfavorable, prompting the adoption of restrictive measures.

Earlier, Uzbekistan’s Sanitary and Epidemiological Committee advised citizens to take precautions regarding the spread of Nipah virus in India and Southeast Asia, while noting that the risk of the disease entering Uzbekistan remains extremely low.