05/27/2025
🚨🚨🚨We are writing on behalf of the Arkansas Veterinary Medical Association to alert you to a serious and emerging threat to animal health: the resurgence of New World Screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) in Mexico.
This parasite poses a significant risk to both animals and humans. Due to its rapid northward spread, heightened vigilance among veterinary professionals in Arkansas is critical.
Federal Action Taken
On May 11, 2025, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced an immediate suspension of live cattle, horse, and bison imports through U.S. ports of entry along the southern border. Her statement reads:
"(Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today announced the suspension of live cattle, horse, and bison imports through U.S. ports of entry along the southern border due to the continued and rapid northward spread of New World Screwworm (NWS) in Mexico. NWS has been recently detected in remote farms with minimal livestock movement as far north as Oaxaca and Veracruz, approximately 700 miles from the U.S. border."
Why This Matters
Screwworm larvae invade living tissue, causing deep, festering wounds that can be fatal without timely treatment. The pest’s advancement toward the U.S. border raises serious concern for our livestock and wildlife populations.
Clinical Signs to Watch For:
Open wounds that fail to heal normally
Visible maggots in or around wounds
Changes in animal behavior, such as increased restlessness, agitation, or abnormal vocalizations
Reporting Protocol
This is a foreign animal disease and must be reported immediately if suspected. Please use the following contacts to report potential cases:
Arkansas Department of Agriculture – Animal Health Section:
Dr. John Nilz: (501) 297-2250
Dr. Josh Moffett: (501) 515-4796
USDA APHIS VS – Area Veterinarian in Charge:
Dr. Melissa Clegg: (501) 545-3441
When reporting, be prepared to provide:
Location of the animal(s)
Clinical signs observed
Any relevant history of travel or possible exposure
Resources for Further Information
We encourage all veterinary professionals to familiarize themselves with current information on screwworm identification and prevention:
USDA APHIS – New World Screwworm
Accreditation Module 41: Screwworm Module
Pest Alert: New World Screwworm
New World Screwworm What You need to Know
We thank you for your continued dedication to animal health and welfare. The veterinary community plays a critical role in early detection and rapid response. Please remain alert and report any suspected cases promptly.
