Is a CDC import permit required for importing diagnostic specimens into the United States?
A CDC import permit is not required for human or animal diagnostic specimens (except for non-human primates) such as blood, urine, tissues in which there is no evidence or indication that such materials contain an infectious agent. Please note that specimens from humans may be subject to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 C.F.R. 1910.1030) and that specimens from animals may require a permit from the USDA/APHIS. Biological products and biological waste regulated by other Federal agencies may not require a permit. To facilitate clearance of materials that do not require a CDC import permit, it is recommended that each shipment of this material be accompanied by a signed statement, on official letterhead, from the person responsible for the shipment of this material with the following information: • A description of the material; • A statement that this material meets one of the above criteria (e.g., this material is not known or su
