Home / Environment / Colorado Acts to Block Deadly Parasite
Colorado Acts to Block Deadly Parasite
11 Jun
Summary
- New World Screwworm fly larvae eat live animal tissue.
- Colorado enacted an emergency rule to prevent parasite spread.
- Animals from infested zones require special movement certificates.
Colorado has enacted an emergency rule to prevent the New World Screwworm (NWS) from spreading into the state, as cases have recently been confirmed in Texas and New Mexico. This species of fly, known for its larvae feeding on live animal tissue, poses a significant threat to the U.S. cattle industry, marking the first such concern since the 1960s.
The new regulations prohibit animals with NWS myiasis from entering Colorado without specific approvals. These include a Certificate for Movement from the state of origin, a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection, and inspections by an authorized veterinarian within five days prior to movement.
Animals with open wounds must be treated, with exceptions for slaughter-bound livestock. An entry permit is required from the Colorado State Veterinarian's Office, and all arriving animals will be inspected. Pet owners must also adhere to inspection protocols for cats and dogs originating from infested areas.
The Colorado State Veterinarian's Office is hosting a free informational webinar on Thursday at 6 p.m. to detail these new regulations. Registration is available online.
