Screwworm + High Risk Rabies

Screwworm (fly), a parasitic fly known for its screw-shaped larvae, which infest open wounds. The screwworm is a serious pest of livestock and certain domestic and wild animals. It is found in subtropical and tropical climates from the extreme southern United States to Argentina.

Caribbean Islands with Screwworm: Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago

Please note: APHIS VS has special requirements for all dogs imported or returning to the United States of America from countries affected with screwworm. Pet and other types of dogs (commercial, breeding, etc.) that are returning, and/or are presented for US entry, from countries or regions where screwworm is known to exist, may enter the US if they meet the following requirements:

  • The dog must be accompanied by a certificate signed by a full-time salaried veterinary official of the region of origin stating that the dog has been inspected for screwworm within 5 days prior to shipment to the United States.
  • The certificate must state that the dog is either free from screwworm or was found to be infested with screwworm and was held in quarantine and treated until free from screwworm prior to leaving the region.

Aruba: Aruba requires additional certification statements for New World Screwworm, which have been added to the health certificate.

Dogs traveling from countries or regions where screwworm is known to exist may enter the United States if they are accompanied by a certificate signed by a full-time salaried veterinary official of the region of origin stating:

  • The dog has been inspected for screwworm within 5 days prior to shipment to the United States; and
  • The dog is either free from screwworm OR
  • The dog was infested with screwworm, held in quarantine, and treated until free from screwworm prior to leaving the region.

High-Risk Rabies Caribbean Islands (Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic)

The CDC’s temporary suspension for dogs entering the United States from high-risk countries for dog rabies will be extended through July 31, 2024; all current requirements will remain in place. Learn more on CDC.gov