By Jamie Martin
The federal government is taking active steps to prevent the spread of the New World screwworm, a highly destructive pest that threatens livestock health and agricultural stability. Officials have highlighted the importance of early prevention to protect cattle producers and maintain affordable beef supplies.
The screwworm poses a serious risk because it infects livestock and can cause severe injury or death. If the pest were to spread into major cattle-producing regions, it could lead to economic losses for ranchers and rising food prices. Leaders have noted that while the screwworm has not entered the United States, it remains close, making preparedness essential.
To address this risk, new legislation signed into law last year authorizes funding for screwworm prevention programs. This law strengthens the government’s ability to invest in research, monitoring, and infrastructure needed to stop the pest before it spreads further.
A key part of the national strategy is the planned construction of a sterile fly production facility in South Texas. Federal agencies are currently working on the planning process for this site. Once completed, it will be the only US-based facility dedicated to producing sterile flies to control screwworm populations. The facility will support ongoing efforts in coordination with similar operations in Mexico and Panama.
“Planning is currently underway with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to construct a domestic sterile fly production facility in South Texas. It will be the only U.S.-based sterile fly production facility and will work in tandem with facilities in Panama and Mexico to help eradicate this pest and protect American agriculture,” said U.S. Senator John Cornyn.
“While the New World screwworm poses a direct threat to cattle ranchers [and] all of us who enjoy a good hamburger or a steak, I think this should be encouraging news. The fly has yet to land here in the United States, but it's close and we're taking active steps to prevent its continued northward spread,” said Cornyn.
Federal leaders remain confident that strong coordination, scientific tools, and continued investment will allow the country to respond effectively if the screwworm approaches US borders. These efforts show a clear commitment to protecting American agriculture and livestock health.
Read the article: FDA Grants IVOMEC Emergency use against New World screwworm
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pamwalker68
Categories: National