By Scout Nelson
The United States Department of Agriculture recently confirmed cases of New World screwworm (NWS) in cattle in Texas. Additional cases have since been identified in Texas, along with an infected dog in New Mexico. In response, North Dakota animal health officials are reminding livestock owners and animal transporters about important import requirements designed to protect animal health.
The New World screwworm is a harmful parasitic fly whose larvae can infest warm-blooded animals. The pest can affect cattle, sheep, goats, horses, dogs, cats, poultry, birds, deer, elk, and many other animals. Because of the risk it poses, states with active NWS quarantines have additional movement restrictions in place.
Animals entering North Dakota from quarantined areas must be accompanied by a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) and a pre-entry permit number. The permit number must be listed on the inspection certificate before animals are imported into the state.
Federal and state agencies are working together to prevent the spread of the pest. The North Dakota Department of Agriculture is coordinating with the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and veterinary officials in other states to maintain communication and respond quickly if new cases are detected.
“If you are bringing animals in from, or traveling into high-risk areas, monitor your animals for wounds. If you notice any suspicious wounds on your animal, have a veterinarian look at it,” State Veterinarian Dr. Ethan Andress said. “Horse owners traveling with an Extended Equine Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (EECVI) should be aware the EECVI will not be accepted from infested states and will require an inspection and CVI with permit.”
Individuals planning to travel to Mexico with pets should visit the USDA-APHIS Pet Travel Website for the latest guidelines.
“Proper documents help to quickly identify and isolate infected animals, trace their movements and stop further spread,” Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring said. “We rely on the cooperation of owners to help safeguard the health of animals and livestock.”
“When NWS infestations are found, infestations can be treated with several FDA-approved products,” Andress said. “A prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent significant losses.”
Animal owners are encouraged to follow all movement requirements, monitor animals closely, and contact veterinary officials if they have concerns. These steps help protect livestock, pets, and wildlife from the spread of New World screwworm.
Full details on animal movement and importation requirements may be found on the North Dakota Department of Agriculture’s website.
Those with questions may contact the North Dakota Department of Agriculture’s animal health division at 701-328-2655 or doa-bah@nd.gov.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pamwalker68
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock