Texas introduces new online guide to streamline movement rules for New World screwworm amid ongoing pest management

Texas animal health officials have launched a quick-reference online guide to assist owners, vets, and producers in navigating movement regulations related to the New World screwworm, as the state steps up efforts to manage the pest in affected regions.

Texas animal health officials have published a quick-reference guide to help owners, producers and veterinarians navigate movement rules tied to New World screwworm, as the state continues to manage the pest in parts of Texas.

According to the Texas Animal Health Commission, working with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, the new online resource is designed to make it easier to identify the correct requirements for livestock, horses, poultry, exotics in those species and rescue animals leaving an infested area. The guidance is available through the commission’s New World screwworm landing page and is intended to support compliance with state movement rules.

The commission says all warm-blooded animals in its designated infested zone cannot move out without prior authorisation. The zone currently covers parts of Texas including counties such as Bandera, Brewster and Zavala, and a map is available on the agency’s website.

For interstate movement, Texas officials stress that requirements may differ by species, purpose of movement and destination. A treatment or movement certificate must be issued by a deployed responder, a New World screwworm certified inspector or an authorised veterinarian. For veterinary practitioners, the key point is that a certificate of veterinary inspection is required for cross-border movement, and destination-state animal health offices should be checked before transport.

Texas agencies also continue to advise vigilance for suspected cases, with state health and emergency management departments directing clinicians, producers and the public to report concerns promptly. For busy practices, the new guide is meant to shorten the path from suspicion to compliant movement.

Image Source: The Texas Animal Health Commission