What Are You Importing?
CDC has regulatory authority over several types of imported items.
If you are importing infectious biological agents, infectious substances, and vectors of human disease into the United States, please visit the CDC Import Permit Program (IPP) site.
If you are importing biological agents and toxins that could pose a severe threat to public health and safety (select agents), please visit the Federal Select Agent Program site.
The Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Import Program regulates the importation of most other items.
Issuance and Enforcement Guidance for Dog Confinement Agreements
On July 10, 2014, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) posted guidance on the Issuance and Enforcement Guidance for Dog Confinement Agreements. This guidance describes the factors that HHS/CDC will consider in deciding whether to issue a dog confinement agreement or deny entry of a dog being imported into the United States that has not been adequately vaccinated against rabies. Dog confinement agreements are covered under 42 CFR 71.51. This guidance became effective on August 11, 2014 (30 days after publication).
Final Rule on Regulations for the Importation of Nonhuman Primates
On February 15, 2013, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) posted a final rule that revises HHS/CDC Regulation 42 Code of Federal Regulations Part 71.53, the regulations for importation of nonhuman primates (NHPs) into the United States. The final rule clarifies the process for importing NHPs and explains all requirements importers must follow to prevent the spread of disease from NHPs to humans. The final rule is effective beginning April 16, 2013.
Internet Adoption Scams Involving Imported Pets
Regulations to Establish a User Fee for Filovirus Testing of Nonhuman Primates
On February 12, 2013, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published a final rule establishing a user fee for filovirus testing of nonhuman primates (NHPs). According to the final rule, CDC will charge a $540 user fee to cover the costs for testing of NHP samples submitted to the CDC. Filovirus antigen-capture testing is required for all Old World NHPs that die for any reason other than trauma during the mandatory 31-day quarantine period or that have illness consistent with filovirus infection. This rule became effective on March 14, 2013.
About Animal Importation
Each day millions of animals and animal products are brought into the United States, increasing the potential for the introduction of infectious diseases. CDC works with other federal agencies to protect US borders against diseases carried by animals and animal products.
CDC’s current regulations govern the importation of pet dogs and cats, African rodents, turtles, monkeys, and civets, as well any product made from parts of these animals. Other animals or animal products may also be prohibited if they are known to be a risk to human health.
Contact Us:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1600 Clifton Rd
Atlanta, GA 30333 - 800-CDC-INFO
(800-232-4636)
TTY: (888) 232-6348 - Contact CDC–INFO