Texas Governor Declares Disaster Over Screwworm Threat
- Greg Abbott issued a statewide disaster declaration on Thursday to prevent the potential spread of the New World screwworm fly into the Lone Star State, as he seeks...
- The governor's declaration allows the texas New World Screwworm Response Team to use all state government prevention and response resources to prevent the spread of the parasite into...
- The New World screwworm fly is spreading north from Mexico toward the border it shares with the U.S.
“`html
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Texas gov. Greg Abbott issued a statewide disaster declaration on Thursday to prevent the potential spread of the New World screwworm fly into the Lone Star State, as he seeks to better protect livestock and wildlife.
The governor’s declaration allows the texas New World Screwworm Response Team to use all state government prevention and response resources to prevent the spread of the parasite into Texas.
The New World screwworm fly is spreading north from Mexico toward the border it shares with the U.S.
FLESH-EATING PARASITE CASE DETECTED IN US TRAVELER RETURNING FROM CENTRAL AMERICA
Texas New World screwworm Response Team Established
Table of Contents
Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and the Texas animal Health Commission (TAHC) to create a joint Texas New World Screwworm Response team on January 26, 2024, following the confirmed detection of the parasitic fly in livestock in Duval and Jim Hogg counties.
What is New World Screwworm?
New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae infest wounds of warm-blooded animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and humans. The larvae feed on living tissue, causing notable pain, secondary infections, and possibly death if left untreated. The fly was eradicated from the United States in 1989, but recent cases signal a re-emergence of the pest.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), the screwworm fly lays its eggs in open wounds, and the hatched larvae burrow into the flesh, creating a myiasis infection. A 2023 outbreak in Mexico prompted increased surveillance in Texas.
Joint Agency Response
The collaborative effort between TPWD and TAHC aims to rapidly detect, contain, and eradicate the screwworm infestation. The team will coordinate surveillance, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention efforts across affected areas.
Governor Abbott’s directive specifically instructs the agencies to utilize all available resources to address the outbreak. The Governor’s office press release stated the team will work with local producers, veterinarians, and federal partners, including USDA-APHIS.
Affected Areas and Initial Findings
The initial detection of New World screwworm occurred in livestock in Duval and Jim Hogg counties,located in South Texas. As of January 26, 2024, the TAHC confirmed cases in these counties and initiated enhanced surveillance in surrounding areas.
The TAHC reported that investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of the infestation and identify the source of the re-introduction. Producers are urged to report any suspected cases to their local veterinarian or the TAHC.
Prevention and Treatment
Preventing screwworm infestation relies on good wound care practices. Livestock owners should promptly clean and disinfect any wounds, and consult a veterinarian for appropriate treatment.
The USDA-APHIS recommends using insecticides to control fly populations and practicing strict sanitation measures.Detailed information on treatment and prevention is available on the USDA-APHIS website.Early detection and treatment are crucial to minimizing the impact of screwworm on livestock health and the agricultural economy.