New World screwworm restrictions affect cattle entering Canada from parts of the U.S.

Canadian cattle producers moving live animals across the U.S. border should check current import requirements following recent New World screwworm detections in Texas and New Mexico.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) lists Texas and New Mexico as affected states. New Mexico was added following a Sept. 17, 2026, detection. The restrictions apply to live cattle and several other animal species entering Canada, including Canadian animals returning from the U.S.

Live cattle originating from an affected state cannot be imported into Canada. Cattle from other U.S. states may enter if they have not been in or travelled through an affected state during the 21 days before export and meet all other import requirements.

Canadian cattle that have been in or travelled through an affected state cannot return directly to Canada. CFIA says they must be moved to a non-affected U.S. state and remain there for at least 21 days before returning, subject to all other applicable conditions. Simply driving through an affected state is considered transit and triggers the restriction.

New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on living tissue. It has not been detected in Canada. The restrictions concern animal health and apply to live animals. They do not apply to meat or other animal products.

Before moving cattle into the U.S., owners and exporters should contact their local CFIA Animal Health District Office to confirm the current rules for bringing animals back. The list of affected states and requirements may change.