A document issued by a qualified healthcare professional or authorized entity verifying an individual’s or item’s health status. This attestation confirms that the individual or item meets specific health standards or requirements at a particular point in time. For example, it might certify that a person is free from a communicable disease before international travel or that an animal has received necessary vaccinations prior to interstate transport.
These certifications play a critical role in safeguarding public health, facilitating international trade, and ensuring the well-being of animal populations. Historically, such documentation has been essential in preventing the spread of epidemics and controlling the movement of potentially harmful organisms. They provide assurance to receiving parties that certain health risks have been mitigated.
