New reporting system available for suspected New World Screwworm cases in Arkansas

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – New updates from the Arkansas Department of Agriculture are now giving Arkansas residents an option to take preventative action against New World Screwworm.

Though no detections have been reported in Arkansas, livestock and animal owners can now submit suspected reports of New World Screwworm using the department’s online reporting form.

Users will be able to upload photos and location information. After submission, staff will follow up with instructions for next steps. Suspect cases may also be reported through a veterinarian or by calling the Arkansas Department of Agriculture.

Department officials recommend isolating affected animals and avoid moving any animals off the premises if New World Screwworm is suspected.

The department also updated animal entry requirements in Arkansas, requiring all warm-blooded animals entering the state from an infested state to be accompanied by an Interstate Certificate of Veterinary Inspection dated within seven days of entry.

Officials said the certificate must include the statement: “All animals in shipment were inspected and found free of evidence of NWS infestation.”

The department encourages animal owners to watch for wounds that fail to heal, foul-smelling discharge, tissue damage or visible maggots in or around a wound.

Livestock animals are also encouraged to get a valid Premises Identification Number (PIN). It is required for interstate and intrastate animal movement from a New World Screwworm Infested Zone.