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Dairy producers urged to stay vigilant against New World screwworm

A district veterinarian with the Indiana State Board of Animal Heath says New World screwworm remains a serious risk for the livestock industry.

Debbie Boyd says the pest isn’t a threat to the U.S. milk supply but, “It really affects the animals,” she says. “Wounds that are not healing and growing in size. The New World screwworm maggots actually make these wounds worse.”

The USDA has confirmed 35 cases of NWS in Texas and New Mexico.

Boyd tells Brownfield the biggest threat is the movement of animals from infected regions.

“Indiana requires a special movement permit, which would have to come from the Board of Animal Health, and then also, producers must apply a product that would treat infestations before they are moved,” she says. “Texas actually has some requirements for animals moving out of those areas and USDA may have additional regulations as well.”

Boyd says producers should routinely inspect their herds, immediately treat all wounds, and contact their local veterinarian to develop a plan of action for New World screwworm.

BOAH says all animals need to be accompanied by a pre-entry permit. The permit must indicate that the animal has been treated with an effective treatment for New World screwworm. The restrictions must be applied for livestock and poultry species within 14 days of movement and 5 days of movement for cats and dogs.

NWS is not a food safety issue and cannot be spread through milk or other dairy products.

The USDA is urging residents to check animals for draining or enlarging wounds, maggots or egg masses, signs of discomfort, or lesions in body openings. 

NWS has not been detected in Indiana, but has been found in Texas and New Mexico.

AUDIO: Debbie Boyd, Indiana BOAH