New Threat from Screwworms in Texas
Canada has restricted imports of livestock from Texas due to a second confirmed case of the New World screwworm fly. This situation has prompted Governor Greg Abbott to declare a state of emergency, citing an “imminent threat.” The recent infestation was identified in a calf in Zavala County, close to the Texas-Mexico border, and is located just about nine miles from an earlier case reported this week.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture notified the public of this second outbreak on Friday. Following this discovery, Abbott issued a disaster declaration and has allocated more state resources to tackle the situation effectively.
In his statement, Governor Abbott emphasized the need to mobilize all available state resources. He noted plans to expedite the movement of sterile flies to Texas and develop a new facility for sterile screwworm production in Edinburg. “We’ve dealt with this pest before, and we’ll do it again,” he remarked.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency announced the temporary ban of cattle and horses entering Canada from Texas, which applies to any livestock that has been in the state over the last 21 days. According to Canadian officials, the cold climate makes a widespread outbreak of screwworms unlikely.
This situation isn’t entirely new; earlier this week, Texas officials discussed ongoing concerns about the New World screwworm, with Commissioner Sid Miller warning of possible widespread effects on the livestock industry. He mentioned that this threat could extend to livestock, wildlife, and even pets. “Prepare for it,” he urged, recognizing the potential for significant impacts across various sectors.
Miller also expressed concern about the movement of screwworm flies from southern Mexico, describing the phenomenon amidst a mild winter. Unfortunately, as temperatures rose in June, his warnings have proven to be well-founded.
Miller criticized the USDA’s more lenient strategy of releasing sterile flies in Mexico, advocating instead for a more assertive approach—suggesting the use of bait to kill the flies responsible for the spread of the larvae.
Texas has tools at its disposal now that weren’t available in the 1970s, during a previous screwworm outbreak. With better anti-parasitic drugs, Miller encourages farmers to consult with veterinarians about their use. “They’re ready for use,” he added.
The New World screwworm is a troubling parasite, targeting warm-blooded animals, including livestock and pets, and can be lethal if left untreated. The larvae infest healthy tissue, which distinguishes them from typical maggots that consume decaying material.
The severe outbreak of the New World screwworm was eradicated in the United States in 1975, but challenges remain today. Miller pointed out that despite significant efforts, the screwworms are still making their way north. He urged the USDA to use a proven technique, the Screwworm Adult Suppression System (SWASS), to counter this re-emerging threat effectively.
Miller requested President Trump to advocate for immediate action to combat what could escalate into a larger agricultural crisis, stressing the importance of proactive measures.
To assist Texans, Abbott’s office provided guidance on monitoring livestock and pets for wounds and encouraged immediate treatment of any injuries. Reporting unusual cases is also advised to prevent potential infestations.
As part of the response, the Department of Agriculture has started increasing the release of sterile flies in Zavala County, along with enhancing the number of traps in the region to mitigate this urgent issue.
