Executive Director Order Establishing Interstate Movement Requirements for Livestock, Exotic Livestock, Fowl and Exotic Fowl From New World Screwworm Affected States

The Texas Animal Health Commission has established new interstate movement requirements to protect livestock, exotic livestock, fowl, and exotic fowl from New World Screwworm. The parasitic fly can cause severe wounds, secondary infections, and death in warm-blooded animals.

Animals entering Texas from states with active New World Screwworm zones must meet additional inspection and documentation requirements. Animals originating within an infested zone generally need an electronic certificate of Veterinary inspection issued within seven days, documenting inspection, treatment when applicable, and freedom from infestation and wounds. Animals originating elsewhere in an affected state require a certificate issued within 30 days.

Separate requirements apply to animals traveling directly or indirectly to Texas slaughter facilities and Texas-origin animals returning from infested areas. Returning animals may also require inspection documentation and an entry permit.

The requirements supplement existing Texas animal entry regulations and took effect immediately upon being signed Oct. 1. They will remain in place until modified or rescinded.