Arizona Livestock Incident Response Team (ALIRT)

Improving the diagnosis and response to unexplained livestock deaths in Arizona by providing resources and expertise from the Arizona Cattlemen's Association, Arizona Department of Agriculture, USDA and University of Arizona Cooperative Extension.

List of extension members and veterinarians involved with ALIRT:

Report an Incident

ALIRT BOLO

New World screwworm

New World screwworm flies can be devastating to livestock and other mammals because of the growth cycle of their larvae. Screwworm fly larvae, or maggots, burrow into the flesh of living animals causing serious, and even deadly, damage to the animal.

Read BOLO to learn more about the fly.

The most effective prevention is blocking reintroduction of New World screwworms to the United States. The Arizona Livestock Incident Response Team (ALIRT) is initiating a Pilot New World Screwworm Surveillance Project which involves distributing larva collection kits to assist in submitting suspected screwworm fly larvae to the Arizona Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory for early identification. Anyone can report suspected cases of screwworm, and we need everyone to be on the lookout. This disease is serious and can have catastrophic impacts on US agriculture, and animal and public health. Catching it early and eliminating it quickly is vital.

To request New World screwworm surveillance collection kits:

• Contact your local Extension office.
• Contact your large animal or equine veterinarian.
• Contact the Arizona Department of Agriculture Animal Services Division.