Alabama Tightens Animal Import Rules Due to Screwworm: New Health Order, Not Yet Officially Confirmed

On June 12, 2026, local media in Alabama reported that the state had implemented new rules for animal imports following the detection of the New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) in Texas and New Mexico. According to reports, the regulation issued by the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries would require additional health certificates, quarantine periods, and laboratory tests for animals from affected or at-risk areas. The official document has not been published yet, so exact details should be considered preliminary.

The screwworm is a pest affecting livestock and other warm-blooded animals, causing myiasis and significant economic losses. The detection in Texas and New Mexico prompted Alabama to tighten internal controls. If confirmed, the measure would add to USDA federal requirements, increasing the administrative and health burden for Mexican exporters. Other states may adopt similar measures, so the situation requires monitoring.