North Dakota animal owners are being reminded to check import rules after New World screwworm was confirmed earlier this month in Texas cattle.
The North Dakota Department of Agriculture says animals being brought into the state need a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection. Animals coming from a state with an active New World screwworm quarantine also need a pre-entry permit number listed on that certificate.
The Department says summer is the busiest season in the state for hauling cattle, horses and other animals for sales, shows, rodeos, fairs and travel.
New World screwworm is a parasitic fly that can affect warm-blooded animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, horses, pets, poultry, deer and elk. State officials say owners who have traveled into high-risk areas should watch animals for suspicious wounds and contact a veterinarian if anything looks unusual.
The USDA says the current risk to animals and people in the United States is very low, and this is not considered a food-safety issue.
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