The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) issued the following guidance for livestock producers, pet owners, and veterinarians to help protect animals from the parasitic New World Screwworm (NWS) fly. The guidance comes after multiple cases of NWS have been detected in livestock in Texas and one infestation was confirmed in a canine in New Mexico.
All livestock caretakers and pet owners should routinely inspect animals for open wounds. If maggots are detected in an open wound of a warm-blooded animal, report it to IDALS immediately at 515-281-5305 or Animal.Industry@iowaagriculture.gov.
When caught early, animals and wounds can be treated, and animals can fully recover from NWS.
Guidance for importing livestock and companion animals into Iowa from an infested zone:
- Contact the State Animal Health Official in the state of origin for movement requirements.
- Visit IDALS’ Animal Admission Health Requirements page or call 515-281-5547 to verify Iowa’s import requirements.
Source : iowaagriculture.gov