New World Screwworm Info From Texas Farm Bureau

Several cases of New World screwworm have now been confirmed in Texas.

State and federal animal health officials are actively responding to the detections, and additional cases may be identified as surveillance, trapping, and inspections increase in affected areas.

New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, wildlife, and pets.

The Texas Animal Health Commission has an interactive map that allows Texans to enter an address and determine whether they are located within a surveillance, buffer, or quarantine zone.

The map also provides information on movement restrictions and response measures that may apply in your area.

State and federal officials have prepared for this situation and are implementing an aggressive response plan from the New World Screwworm Playbook.

Current efforts include:

• Increased surveillance, trapping, and inspections in affected areas
• Quarantines and movement restrictions when necessary
• Targeted releases of sterile New World screwworm flies in response areas
• Sterile fly dispersal operations along the U.S.-Mexico border and into South Texas
• Construction of a domestic sterile fly production facility at Moore Air Base in Edinburg

The sterile insect technique was used to eradicate New World screwworm from the United States decades ago.

Sterile male flies are released into affected areas and mate with wild female flies. Because no viable offspring are produced, the population declines over time until the pest is eliminated.

Inspect livestock, pets, and wildlife regularly for:

• Wounds that fail to heal
• Enlarging or worsening wounds
• Bloody drainage or a foul odor
• Visible larvae or maggots in wounds
• Animals showing signs of discomfort, irritation, or unusual behavior

Animals with recent wounds should receive extra attention.

FDA-approved products are available to help prevent and treat New World screwworm infestations.

Livestock owners and pet owners should consult their veterinarian about the products and management practices that best fit their situation.

View a quick reference guide from the Texas Animal Health Commission: https://txfb.us/NWS-Approved-Drugs

New World screwworm does not affect the safety of meat, milk, fruits, vegetables, or other food products. The pest affects living animals, not food products.

Early detection is critical to successful eradication efforts.

Livestock and pets: Report suspected infestations to the veterinarian on call with the Texas Animal Health Commission: 1-800-550-8242.

Wildlife: Report suspected infestations to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

Texas Farm Bureau continues to work with USDA, the Texas Animal Health Commission, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and industry partners to share accurate information, support response efforts, and advocate for the resources needed to eradicate New World screwworm.

For the latest updates and resources, visit:

• TAHC Interactive Zone Map
• Screwworm.gov
• Texas Animal Health Commission
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Contact Tracy Tomascik, TFB Associate Director of Commodity and Regulatory Activities, at [email protected] or 254.751-2266.