Intentionally infected animals

Live animals, intentionally infected with human pathogens or zoonotic agents (Category B, microorganisms of risk groups 2 and 3).

Live animals should not be used to transport infectious substances, unless there is no alternative. If possible, animals should be infected at their destination.

  • Biological substance, Category B, intentionally infected live animals: UN 3373
UN-Number Proper shipping name Class Packing instruction ADR (Road) Packing instruction IATA (Air)
3373 Biological substance, Category B, intentionally infected live animal 6.2 P650 is not applicable to live animals IATA live animal regulations can be taken as guidelines for suitable receptacles PI 650 is not applicable to live animals IATA live animal regulations have to be followed

Packaging instructions P650 and PI 650 are not suited for the transport of live animals. IATA live animal regulations can be taken as guidelines for suitable receptacles. International transport is possible by the terms and conditions approved by the competent authority of the state of origin, transit and destination, and operator.

Transport of animals should be done in accordance with the animal welfare regulations (SR 455.1, Tierschutzverordnung, Chapter 7).

Small animals (i.e. rodents):

Packaging has to meet the requirements of the animal welfare regulations (TSchV, Art.167).

Primary receptacle: closed, sufficiently aerated primary cage (i.e. Makrolan glass/mini-box) with litter, food and water (i.e. gelpacks) for twice the expected transport period, secured sealing.

Secondary packaging: protective ventilated cardboard box or ventilated plastic box, closed with perforated cover, breathing holes have to be clear, cover secured by appropriate means.

  • Animals should be able to be watched while in packaging;
  • When animal(s) is/are shedding the pathogens and the pathogens are transmitted through aerosols, the primary cage or the secondary packaging has to be equipped with filters retaining the pathogens;
  • The packaging
    • - should be resistant enough to avoid escape of animal(s);
    • - should be non-hazardous for animal(s).

Large animals (e.g. farm animals):

  • There are minimal space requirements for the transport of large animals according to the animal welfare regulation.
  • Specific requirements according the animal disease regulations for the transport of large animals infected with pathogens apply (Tierseuchenverordnung, SR916.401).

Invertebrates (Insects etc.):

A triple packaging is recommended:

  • Primary receptacle, i.e. a tight fitted plastic box closed with a gauze cover for ventilation; the gauze mesh size needs to be fine enough to prevent any individuals from escaping;
  • Secondary packaging, i.e. solid styrofoam box containing cooling elements, sealed with tape;
  • Outer packaging, e.g. standard cardboard shipping box.

Additionally for air transport: IATA life animal regulations, information provided by carrier.

  • UN number and proper shipping name: UN 3373, BIOLOGICAL SUBSTANCE, CATEGORY B (at least 6 mm high), Life animals;
  • Name and address of consigner and consignee;
  • Mark: diamond-shaped mark with minimum dimensions of 50mm by 50mm containing the UN number UN 3373 (at least 6 mm high);
  • Up and down arrows on opposite side of box.

Additionally for air transport:

  • Phone number of responsible person;
  • Net quantity (number of animals).

Note: A shipper's declaration for dangerous goods is not required for Category B infectious substances!

  • It is recommended to provide an itemized list of contents including name of the pathogens;
  • Required permits, if applicable;
  • Delivery note with details on animals transported including information on type of pathogens animals are infected with and number of animals;
  • Further documentation is required for the transport of farm animals.

 Additionally for air transport:

  • Air Waybill for air transport (form provided and filled out by carrier);
  • Approvals of state of origin, transit and destination, and operator.

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Last edition: 19.12.2023