Pennsylvania issues quarantine order amid heightened risks of New World Screwworm
(WHTM) — Pennsylvania’s Agriculture Secretary announced he is issuing a quarantine order to limit animal movement and tighten biosecurity amid the rising risk of New World Screwworm.
Secretary Russell Redding said that farmers must protect their livestock after cases of NWS have been reported in Texas and New Mexico.
“Pennsylvania has no confirmed cases of New World Screwworm, but this destructive pest poses a serious threat to our livestock industry, companion animals, wildlife, and agricultural economy,” Sec. Redding said. “Taking proactive steps now to strengthen biosecurity and limit unnecessary animal movements from affected areas will help protect our farms and communities.”
Redding says NWS is a pest in which larvae burrow into living animals, which can cause deadly damage to livestock, pets, wildlife, occasionally birds, and in rare cases, people.
“New World Screwworm is unlike the flies and maggots we commonly encounter,” State Veterinarian Dr. Alex Hamberg said. “These larvae feed on living tissue, causing severe wounds that can quickly become life-threatening if left untreated. Producers, veterinarians, and pet owners should regularly inspect animals for wounds that fail to heal or show signs of maggot infestation. If producers suspect NWS, they should seek veterinary care immediately.”
Anyone who suspects an NWS infestation should immediately contact their veterinarian and report the suspected case to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Animal Health and Diagnostic Services at (717) 772-2852.
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