JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Missouri livestock producers bringing animals into the state from areas affected by New World Screwworm will need to follow updated movement requirements after state agriculture officials revised entry rules in response to the parasite’s continued spread.
The Missouri Department of Agriculture announced the changes are effective immediately and are intended to strengthen animal health protections while allowing livestock movement under specific conditions.
Under the revised policy, domestic animals coming from states that contain a New World Screwworm infested zone, but originate outside that zone, may enter Missouri with a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection completed within 14 days before arrival. The certificate must state that the animals were inspected, found free of screwworm infestation, and did not originate from or travel through an infested zone. Paper certificates also require an entry permit from the Missouri Department of Agriculture.
Animals originating inside an established infested zone face additional requirements. They must meet all movement rules established by their state of origin, obtain an entry permit from Missouri’s State Veterinarian, and travel with a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection verifying they show no evidence of screwworm infestation. Documentation authorizing movement out of the infested zone must also be provided before a permit is issued.
State Veterinarian Dr. Steve Strubberg said Missouri’s New World Screwworm working group continues to monitor developments closely and adjusted the movement requirements following additional detections of the pest within the United States.
Although Missouri has not confirmed any cases of New World Screwworm, officials are encouraging livestock owners to remain vigilant.
Producers are urged to strengthen fly control programs, maintain solid biosecurity practices, promptly clean and treat wounds, and work closely with their veterinarians. Registering a farm with a Premises Identification Number is also recommended so producers can receive rapid notifications if the parasite is detected nearby.
Routine inspections remain one of the best defenses. Producers should watch for wounds that fail to heal, drainage, maggots, foul odors, swelling, fever, reduced appetite, excessive head shaking, or unusual irritation. Animals arriving from areas near infestations should be monitored closely for at least one week.
Anyone who suspects a New World Screwworm infestation should contact a veterinarian immediately. Livestock cases should also be reported to the Missouri Department of Agriculture Animal Health Division so officials can respond quickly.
State officials emphasized that New World Screwworm is an animal health issue and does not affect the safety of meat or the nation’s food supply.
Missouri agriculture leaders say early detection, prompt reporting, and careful movement of livestock remain the most effective tools for keeping the destructive parasite out of the state.