Import risk analysis: Llamas (Lama glama) and alpacas (Vicugna ...

quarantined with protection from insect vectors and diagnostic testing. Further, the
infected country is not required to certify that no clinical, epidemiological or other
evidence of VS has been found during the previous 2 years. This apparent
difference in stringency is a reflection of the fact that while VS may be present,
even widespread, in some countries, there are regions within endemically infected
countries where the disease is absent. It is possible, therefore, for an establishment
to have a good record of VS freedom.
Finally, the Code recommends that animals be subjected to a diagnostic test for VS
with negative results. Serologically positive animals would not be eligible for
importation.
One or a combination of the following measures could be considered in order to effectively
manage the risks.
1. Since natural infections are rare in camelids, it could be considered that no
measures are necessary.
2. Animals from VS free countries could be imported provided the disease is
notifiable and that no clinical, epidemiological or other evidence of VS has been
found during the past 2 years; and
i. showed no clinical sign of VS on the day of shipment; and
ii. were kept in a VS free country since birth or for at least the past 21 days.
N.B. This is equivalent to the Code Article 8.15.2.
3. Animals from VS infected countries could be imported provided that they:
i. showed no clinical sign of VS on the day of shipment; and
ii. were kept, since birth or for the past 21 days, in an establishment where no case
of VS was officially reported during that period; and
iii. were protected from insect vectors during quarantine and transportation to the
place of shipment.
N.B. These requirements are equivalent to those in the Code Article 8.15.6. (VS
infected country) except that no serological test is required.
4. Animals from VS infected countries could be imported provided that they:
i. showed no clinical sign of VS on the day of shipment; and
ii. were kept, since birth or for the past 21 days, in an establishment where no case
of VS was officially reported during that period; or
iii. were kept in a quarantine station for the 30 days prior to shipment and were
subjected to a diagnostic test for VS with negative results at least 21 days after
the commencement of quarantine; and
iv. were protected from insect vectors during quarantine and transportation to the
place of shipment.
N.B. These requirements are equivalent to those recommended in the Code,
Article 8.15.6.
MAF Biosecurity New Zealand Import risk analysis: Llamas and alpacas from specified countries ● 61