Michigan Tightens Animal Import Rules After Screwworm Detected in 3-Week-Old New Mexico Calf
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Jun 17
Michigan Tightens Animal Import Rules After Screwworm Detected in 3-Week-Old New Mexico Calf
3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Jun 17
Summary
Michigan's agriculture department imposed new import requirements for warm-blooded animals after New World screwworm was found in a 3-week-old calf in New Mexico, though officials said the pest has not been detected in Michigan.
Animals entering from infested, adjacent or otherwise affected states now need an interstate veterinary inspection certificate and an MDARD approval permit confirming they are free of infestation; any open wounds must be listed before transport.
Michigan also barred animals coming directly from an infested premises until that site is released from quarantine, while allowing direct shipments to USDA processing plants under the new rules.
The state added screwworm to its emergency reportable disease list nearly 10 years ago and is urging producers and pet owners to check animals daily because the parasite can enter through even small skin breaks.