Texas Animal Health Commission Implements New Screwworm Entry Requirements for Livestock
The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) has issued an executive order establishing new entry requirements for livestock and fowl entering Texas from states affected by New World screwworm. This order, effective immediately as of October 1, aims to prevent the introduction or spread of the pest within Texas. The requirements apply to all livestock, exotic livestock, fowl, and exotic fowl originating from states where screwworm has been detected and where an infested zone, quarantine area, or control area is active. The TAHC's decision is a proactive measure to safeguard Texas animal agriculture, complementing existing protective measures. Specific protocols are now mandated for various scenarios, including animals originating within or outside an infested zone, animals moving to a Texas slaughter establishment from an infested zone, and Texas-origin animals returning from an out-of-state infested zone. These detailed requirements are available on the TAHC's website.