United States: The United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) reported a new world screwworm positive in Mexico on Friday, leading the agency to forbid the importation of animals from the country.
The US chief veterinary officer reported the detection of an NWS in a cow at the time of inspection at an identification checkpoint near the Mexican border with Guatemala, as reported by The Hills.
APHIS Steps Up Efforts to Combat Spread
“Given the northward movement of NWS, APHIS has in recent months stepped up its efforts in Central America to partner with impacted countries to push this pest out of newly affected areas,” Dr. Rosemary Sifford said.
“With this latest find in Mexico, we will further intensify this work to protect American agriculture and reestablish the barrier in Central America,” she added, according to the release.
Screwworm Infestations Pose Risks to Livestock and Humans
NWS are fly larvae that parasitize warm-blooded hosts, including humans; they cause infection, the department stated. The worms penetrate through puncture marks, and movement does not exceed that of a few miles — if suitable animals are scarce in a given region, said the authorities.
“Screwworm infestations are way too difficult to detect at first. Check your pets and livestock for draining or enlarging wounds and signs of discomfort,” the release states. “Also, look for screwworm larvae or eggs.”
“Screwworm eggs are creamy and white and are deposited near the edges of superficial wounds,” it continues. “If you suspect your animal is infected with screwworm, contact your veterinarian.”
Preventative Measures and Cooperation with Mexico
In order to combat the infestation, the agency stated that it would keep collaborating with Mexico and Central America, as reported by The Hills.
