Border restrictions in place due to U.S. vesicular stomatitis outbreak

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced temporary import restrictions on horses, swine, and ruminants — including cattle — from certain U.S. states following an outbreak of vesicular stomatitis (VS).

Importation of these animals from affected states is currently suspended until further notice. Canadian-origin animals that have been in a VS-affected state within the past 21 days will also be denied re-entry to Canada, except under very limited circumstances.

To return to Canada, animals must have been moved to a non-affected state, remained there for at least 21 days, and be certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as originating from areas free of clinical or epidemiological evidence of VS during that period.

Producers and transporters are encouraged to avoid travel through VS-affected states whenever possible. If transit through these areas is unavoidable, shippers must complete a supplementary declaration upon arrival at a Canadian port of entry.

Exceptions for major events

The CFIA and USDA have negotiated limited exceptions for specific pre-approved exhibitions and competitions, including:

• Royal Winter Fair
• Agribition
• Calgary Stampede
• Thunderbirds
• Spruce Meadows
• Longines Global Tour
• Denver Stock Show
• Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Animals attending these events must meet strict testing, certification, and inspection requirements — including negative VS testing, vector protection measures, and CFIA veterinary inspection at the border.

About vesicular stomatitis

Vesicular stomatitis is a viral disease that affects horses, cattle, swine, and other ruminants. It causes blister-like lesions on the mouth, nose, and feet, which can lead to discomfort, reduced milk production, and temporary lameness.

While generally mild, VS is of major concern because its symptoms closely resemble those of foot-and-mouth disease — a highly contagious and economically devastating condition. The disease can also infect humans, though cases are typically mild and rare.

The last confirmed case of VS in Canada was in 1949.

For the latest list of affected U.S. states, visit the USDA website.

Further background information is available in this Government of Canada fact sheet.