ERIN ANDERSON
Brownfield Ag Network
The Indiana State Board of Animal Health has adopted new interstate movement requirements for livestock and companion animals to prevent New World screwworm from entering the state.
Denise Derrer Spears says the greatest threat comes from animals in infected regions.
“Those animals need to be accompanied by a pre-entry permit,” she says. “The Board of Animal Health needs to approve it before it arrives in Indiana. That CVI needs to 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.
She tells Brownfield the agency continues to monitor the movement of the pest.
“We’re working very closely and have been with the Indiana Department of Health’s entomology team and also the Department of Natural Resources for tracking any suspicious cases to make sure that they’re followed up on,” she says.
Spears says producers should call a veterinarian in the state of destination to ensure there aren’t any additional requirements before planning interstate travel.
NWS is not a food safety issue, but is a serious pest that threatens livestock, pets, and wildlife.
USDA and the Indiana State Board of Animal Health are 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.
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