Ethiopian Review

CBP Agriculture Specialists Intercept Scorpion At Miami International Airport.

MIAMI — U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agriculture Specialists intercepted a scorpion on the luggage of a passenger arriving at Miami International Airport from El Salvador last Wednesday.

The venomous critter was found during a routine baggage inspection.

In mild cases, the only symptoms of a scorpion sting may be a mild tingling or burning.

In severe cases, symptoms may include double vision, difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, breathing cessation, spasm of the larynx, high blood pressure, increased/decreased heart rate, urinary incontinence, muscle spasms, paralysis, restlessness, seizures, muscle stiffness, abdominal cramps and convulsions.

CBP agriculture specialists are responsible for making sure “hitchhikers” like that scorpion don’t make it into the United States.

On a typical day in 2008, CBP agricultural specialists intercepted more than 4,125 prohibited animal and plant products, including 435 significant agricultural pests at ports of entry.

Recent interceptions in Miami include the Mediterranean medfly, more commonly known as a fruit fly. According to inspectors, an infestation of this pest in the U.S. could lead to significant agricultural and economic losses.

“Our specialists and officers are among the best in the nation. They take great pride and produce significant results in the performance of their duties,” said Harold Woodward, Dir. of Field Operations for Customs and Border Protection in Miami.

The scorpion recently found at MIA was forwarded to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Miami Inspection station where specialists euthanized it.

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