Barbados has stepped up its vigilance against avian influenza after a bird flu outbreak on a commercial poultry farm in neighbouring Suriname prompted renewed regional concern.

Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Mark Trotman confirmed that the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is maintaining a high alert for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu. Officials have increased vigilance at ports and introduced restrictions on poultry products coming from Suriname and Guyana.

Authorities are also warning residents and visitors not to bring poultry, live birds or other meat products into Barbados without the required permits. The ministry says unauthorised imports can undermine efforts to protect the island’s poultry industry and prevent the introduction of animal diseases.

Barbados already has surveillance measures and a permit system in place, but the latest developments across the region have heightened the need for compliance with import controls. The warning follows confirmation of an outbreak at a commercial poultry farm in Suriname, close to Guyana and the wider Caribbean.

For Barbados, protecting poultry production is important to food security, farmers, retailers and consumers. Preventing the entry and spread of animal disease can help reduce the risk of serious disruption to domestic agricultural production.

Officials are urging travellers to comply with import rules and avoid carrying restricted poultry or meat products into the country. Residents should follow updates from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security for the latest guidance as the regional situation develops.