Florida Imposes Emergency Animal Import Rules Amid New World Screwworm Threat

Florida has taken decisive action to safeguard its agricultural industry and livestock populations from the looming threat of the New World Screwworm (NWS). On April 24, 2026, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson issued an emergency rule imposing strict temporary restrictions on the importation of animals from high-risk counties in Texas. The move comes as NWS detections have been confirmed within 125 miles of the U.S. Border, raising alarms among state officials and agricultural producers.

Why the New World Screwworm Poses a Serious Threat

The New World Screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, pets, and even humans. Unlike other pests, NWS larvae burrow into wounds, causing severe infections, tissue damage, and, in extreme cases, death. The pest was eradicated from the U.S. In the 1960s through a coordinated sterile insect release program, but recent detections near the Texas-Mexico border have reignited concerns about its potential reintroduction.

Florida, with its $160 billion agricultural industry and large livestock populations, is particularly vulnerable. A 2016-2017 NWS outbreak in the Florida Keys resulted in the euthanasia of over 150 Key deer and cost millions in eradication efforts. The state’s proactive measures aim to prevent a similar crisis by tightening import controls before the pest can establish a foothold.

Emergency Rule: What’s Changing for Animal Imports?

The emergency rule, effective immediately, targets animals imported into Florida from high-risk counties in Texas. These counties fall within a 125-mile radius of confirmed NWS detections, as identified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (FDACS). The new requirements include:

• Mandatory Official Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (OCVI): All warm-blooded animals imported from high-risk counties must be accompanied by an OCVI, issued by a licensed veterinarian, certifying that the animals are free of contagious diseases and pests, including NWS. No alternative movement documents will be accepted.
• Increased Veterinary Screenings: Animals must undergo thorough inspections to detect signs of NWS infestation, such as wounds or unusual behavior. Suspicious cases will require immediate treatment or quarantine.
• Compliance with Chapter 5C-3, F.A.C.: Imported animals must meet Florida’s existing movement requirements for livestock, which include additional health and safety protocols.

“We are taking aggressive action to further protect Florida and our agricultural producers from the real threat of the New World Screwworm,” Commissioner Simpson stated in a press release. “We recognize how costly and dangerous this pest can be to our agricultural industry if it takes hold, and we will use every tool at our disposal to protect our state. We’re also calling on Florida’s producers, veterinarians, and animal health professionals to remain aware and act quickly if they suspect something unusual.”

Who Is Affected by the New Rules?

The emergency rule applies to all warm-blooded animals, including but not limited to:

• Livestock (cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, goats)
• Pets (dogs, cats)
• Wildlife (deer, feral hogs)
• Exotic animals (zoo animals, non-native species)

Farmers, ranchers, pet owners, and transporters moving animals from high-risk counties into Florida must comply with the new requirements or face penalties, including quarantine or refusal of entry. The FDACS has urged all stakeholders to review the updated guidelines and ensure their operations align with the emergency measures.

How Long Will the Restrictions Remain in Place?

The emergency rule is effective immediately and will remain in place until the threat of NWS is mitigated or until a permanent solution is implemented. The FDACS will continue to monitor the situation in collaboration with the USDA and adjust the restrictions as needed. Updates will be posted on the FDACS website and communicated to industry stakeholders.

What Can Producers and Pet Owners Do to Protect Their Animals?

Whereas the emergency rule focuses on imports, Florida officials are urging all animal owners to take proactive steps to minimize the risk of NWS infestation:

• Regular Inspections: Check animals frequently for wounds, unusual behavior, or signs of maggot infestation. Early detection is critical to preventing severe outbreaks.
• Prompt Wound Treatment: Clean and treat any wounds immediately to prevent flies from laying eggs.
• Report Suspicious Cases: If NWS is suspected, contact the FDACS Division of Animal Industry at (850) 410-0900 or the USDA APHIS Veterinary Services at (352) 313-3060.
• Stay Informed: Follow updates from the FDACS and USDA APHIS for the latest developments.

Key Takeaways for Florida’s Agricultural Community

• The New World Screwworm poses a severe threat to Florida’s livestock, pets, and wildlife, with potential economic losses in the billions if left unchecked.
• Florida’s emergency rule requires all warm-blooded animals imported from high-risk Texas counties to undergo increased veterinary screenings and obtain an Official Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (OCVI).
• The restrictions are temporary but will remain in place until the NWS threat is contained.
• Producers, veterinarians, and animal owners are encouraged to report any suspicious cases immediately to prevent the spread of the pest.

FAQ: What You Need to Know About the Emergency Rule

What is the New World Screwworm, and why is it dangerous?

The New World Screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. Infestations can lead to severe infections, tissue damage, and death if untreated. The pest was eradicated from the U.S. In the 1960s but has been detected near the Texas-Mexico border in recent months.

Which counties in Texas are considered high-risk?

The FDACS has designated high-risk counties as those within a 125-mile radius of confirmed NWS detections. The specific counties are determined by the USDA and FDACS and may be updated as the situation evolves. For the most current list, visit the FDACS website.

Do the new rules apply to all animals?

Yes, the emergency rule applies to all warm-blooded animals, including livestock, pets, wildlife, and exotic animals. Cold-blooded animals, such as reptiles, are not subject to the restrictions.

What happens if I don’t comply with the new requirements?

Animals imported from high-risk counties without the required OCVI or veterinary screenings may be refused entry into Florida or placed under quarantine. Non-compliance could also result in penalties for the owner or transporter.

How can I obtain an Official Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (OCVI)?

An OCVI must be issued by a licensed veterinarian after a thorough inspection of the animal. The certificate must document that the animal is free of contagious diseases and pests, including NWS. Contact your local veterinarian or the FDACS for guidance on obtaining an OCVI.

Looking Ahead: Florida’s Proactive Approach to Biosecurity

Florida’s emergency rule reflects a broader trend of states taking proactive measures to protect their agricultural industries from emerging threats. The NWS outbreak in the Florida Keys in 2016-2017 served as a stark reminder of the pest’s destructive potential, prompting state officials to prioritize prevention over reaction.

As the situation develops, the FDACS and USDA will continue to collaborate with Texas authorities, livestock producers, and veterinarians to monitor NWS activity and adjust import restrictions as needed. For now, Florida’s agricultural community is urged to remain vigilant and comply with the new rules to ensure the state’s livestock and pets remain safe from this devastating pest.

For more information, visit the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services or the USDA APHIS website.