Download Specified members of the Order: Squamata from government-approved zoological collections in Australia - Final import risk analysis (October 2008)

This risk analysis considers the disease risks associated with the importation of specified members within the Order Squamata (Class Reptilia) from government-approved zoological collections in Australia and eggs of these species from the same source.

From a preliminary list, those organisms identified as hazards in live Squamata were subjected to individual risk assessments. As a result of these, it was concluded that the risk in live Squamata was non-negligible for the following organisms: pathogenic adenoviruses (Atadenoviruses), exotic Salmonella spp., gastro-intestinal nematodes, haemosporidian protozoa, Entamoeba invadens, and ectoparasites (ticks and mites). Options for sanitary measures to effectively manage risks associated with these hazards are presented. These include requirements that imported animals are held in pre-export quarantine for 90 days and measures based on treatment, diagnostic testing, or veterinary certification.

Individual risk assessments for the importation of eggs of Squamata were carried out for those hazards identified in live Squamata. It was concluded that risks in eggs of Squamata are limited to pathogenic adenoviruses of lizards (Atadenoviruses) and exotic Salmonella spp. Options for sanitary measures to effectively manage risks associated with these hazards are presented. These include requirements that eggs originate from premises where reptiles are under veterinary supervision and measures based on diagnostic testing and veterinary certification. Disinfection of eggs is not considered appropriate and the reasons for this are discussed.