June 4, USDA announced a second case of New World Screwworm (NWS) approximately five and a half miles from the first confirmed case. The sample was collected from a one-month-old calf. While this development is not unexpected, it reinforces the importance of early detection and immediate response.
Currently, there are no other confirmed cases of NWS elsewhere in the United States.
As we shared in our initial communication to OCA members, the response by USDA and our partners in Texas has been robust and aggressive. A comprehensive playbook has been developed to respond to and work through this situation. By working together, our industry and partners can and will address this pest.
OCA has been in active communication with Secretary Blayne Arthur and Dr. Rod Hall at the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODAFF) over the past several days and will continue to do so. We continue to appreciate their excellent leadership and the partnership they foster with animal agriculture.
Many states are beginning to issue requirements for the movement of livestock into their states. As always, if you plan to transport cattle out of or into Oklahoma, it is important to understand the rules issued by each state veterinarian’s office. Your local veterinarian will know these requirements and can help guide you through the process. You can also contact the ODAFF State Veterinarian’s office for clarification at 405-522-6141.
Important resources for OCA members:
Livestock producers can visit screwworm.gov for specific information on how to prepare, available resources and the most current official updates.
Oklahoma State University Extension has excellent resources available by clicking here.
Important information for OCA members:
- The food supply is safe. NWS is a live-animal pest and does not impact the food supply. Meat, eggs, dairy and other food products remain safe.
- It is not unreasonable that a second case has been confirmed. Further, with enhanced surveillance now in place, additional cases may be identified while mitigation efforts, including sterile fly release, are being ramped up.
- Livestock producers should remain vigilant by inspecting their livestock, continuing to educate themselves and staying aware of current conditions. Early detection and rapid response are the most effective strategies. Report any suspicious wounds or cases immediately to your veterinarian or contact the ODAFF State Veterinarian’s office at 405-522-6141.
- OCA encourages all livestock producers to create and maintain a valid veterinary-client-patient relationship (VCPR) with their local veterinarian in order to be prepared.
- Many tools, resources and strategies have been developed over the past two years in preparation for the potential arrival of NWS. These include treatment options for impacted cattle, protocols for safely moving cattle, an aggressive surveillance network and ongoing work to increase the supply of sterile flies.
- Misinformation and panic are detrimental to our cattle business. We can all help promote a reasonable response and a stable business climate by relying on trusted sources and minimizing the spread of rumors and false information.
