Posted: June 15, 2026
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Animal Health has issued a quarantine order that took effect on June 9, 2026.
New World Screwworm (NWS) is a parasite whose larvae eat the flesh of warm-blooded animals. It can devastate entire herds and flocks. This parasite has recently been found in the southern United States. While NWS cannot overwinter in Pennsylvania due to the cold climate, it could travel to our state via an infected animal and cause harm until temperatures drop in the fall. As a result, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Animal Health has issued a quarantine order that took effect on June 9, 2026. The order places movement and import restrictions on warm-blooded animals coming from or traveling through areas where New World Screwworm exists. Species included in the order include cattle, sheep, goats, horses, swine, dogs, cats, and other susceptible animals.
Information to know:
- Any domestic animal that is suspected of being infested with New World Screwworm, or originates from an affected county or quarantine zone, must be examined by an accredited veterinarian before entering Pennsylvania and determined to be free of NWS.
- Animals originating from a quarantined premises are prohibited from entering Pennsylvania until a State Animal Health Official determines they are free of disease.
- Animals coming from or traveling through affected areas must be accompanied by a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), or other official documentation issued within seven days of entry, verifying the animals are free of New World Screwworm and have no visible wounds or signs of infestation.
- Susceptible animals must also receive an approved preventive treatment for NWS prior to entering Pennsylvania. Documentation must include the product used, route of administration, and treatment date, and must accompany the CVI.
- All animals entering Pennsylvania must continue to meet existing importation requirements and regulations in addition to these new NWS-related requirements.
- For questions regarding the quarantine order or animal movement requirements, contact the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Bureau
