Tenn. State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Beaty Discusses New World Screwworm

This special edition of TCA Talk features a New World Screwworm update with perspective from Dr. Samantha Beaty, the state veterinarian for Tennessee. With the recent news of the New World Screwworm fly cases in Texas and New Mexico, we wanted to get the latest insights from Dr. Beaty, who covers the current status of NWS in the U.S., the risks associated with NWS and the prevention strategies that are in place in the affected areas of the country. We also get an update on Tennessee’s preparedness plan, and what steps the state will take if New World Screwworm cases are discovered in Tennessee.As Dr. Beaty shares with us, while NWS has NOT reached Tennessee, the state has implemented movement restrictions and enhanced health certificate requirements for animals traveling from infested zones. Dr. Beaty also notes the important role that cattle producers play in controlling the spread and impact of the NWS fly through employing best practices in managing your herds. Dr. Beaty offers a number helpful tips, including staying vigilant and proactive with regular animal checks, employing fly control when possible and staying on top of wound management.To learn more about the Tennessee Cattlemen's Association and how you can become a member of TCA, please visit, TNCattle.org.