A shortened name for the Mediterranean fruit fly, a destructive pest of fruits and vegetables that is found throughout most of Central America. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is involved in programmes to keep the Medfly from spreading north into Mexico, where it could easily enter the United States on imported winter fruits and vegetables. Eradication efforts in California, Florida and Texas have prevented infestations from becoming established. Hawaii is infested with the Medfly and no eradication efforts currently are under way. travellers returning to the continental United States from Hawaii or a foreign country are prohibited from bringing into the country fresh fruits, meats, plants, birds, and plant and animal products that may harbour pests or diseases.