Livestock owners in Chattooga County and across Georgia are being urged to stay alert as the Georgia Department of Agriculture has reinstated enhanced animal-entry requirements following another detection of New World screwworm in New Mexico.

The latest case was confirmed September 17 in a horse in Grant County, New Mexico. In response, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper announced additional requirements for warm-blooded animals being brought into Georgia from affected areas.

The enhanced requirements currently apply to animals originating in Catron, Hidalgo, Luna, Sierra and portions of Grant County, New Mexico. Additional restrictions also remain in effect for animals entering Georgia from Texas.

The regulations could be important for local farmers, livestock producers and horse owners who purchase animals from affected areas or transport animals into Georgia.

Animals coming from an officially designated New World screwworm infested zone must receive a Georgia entry permit, which should be requested at least 48 hours before entering the state.

Animals coming from designated counties but outside an infested zone must have a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection issued within seven days of travel. The animal must be inspected and found free of New World screwworm, with that finding recorded on the certificate.

New World screwworm is caused by the larvae of a fly that infest wounds and feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. Infestations can cause severe and potentially deadly injuries.

The Georgia Department of Agriculture says livestock and pet owners should regularly inspect animals for wounds and watch for maggots or eggs, foul-smelling wounds, excessive licking or biting at a wound, head shaking, irritation or unusual isolation from other animals or people.

Owners who suspect New World screwworm in a domestic animal should contact the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Office of the State Veterinarian at 404-656-3667. Suspected cases involving wildlife should be reported to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

State agriculture officials say the animal movement requirements may be changed as conditions develop.