Mississippi Board of Animal Health issues alert for New World Screwworm

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - The Mississippi Board of Animal Health urges animal owners to be aware of New World Screwworm, an invasive pest that poses a serious threat to livestock and other warm-blooded animals, including pets, and in rare cases, humans.

According to a release, adult screwworm flies have orange eyes, a metallic blue or green body, and three dark stripes along their backs.

New World Screwworm was eradicated from the United States decades ago. However, recent detections of the pest in Mexico highlight the potential for reintroduction and spread, particularly in southern states, such as Mississippi.

USDA has suspended live cattle, horse, and bison imports through U.S. ports of entry along the southern border.

Here is what to look for:

• Wounds that won’t heal or worsen over time
• Foul-smelling discharge or visible larvae (maggots) in a wound
• Signs of discomfort or unusual behavior, such as animals avoiding feed or isolating themselves

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