By Jamie Martin
The New World screwworm, a parasitic fly eradicated from the United States in 1966, may be inching closer to the southern border. Experts warn pork producers and livestock owners to stay alert.
This pest was also removed from Mexico by 1991, but sporadic outbreaks have occurred since. One of the most recent took place in 2016, when the fly was detected in the Florida Keys, affecting deer and pets.
Though that outbreak was controlled within five months, the situation could be much harder to manage today.
“From the 1930s to the 1960s, the effort to control and eradicate New World screwworm in the United States costs more than $52 million, adjusted for inflation to today’s value that’s closer to $675 million,” said Kathy Simmons, DVM, Chief Veterinarian at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.
Simmons highlighted that today’s larger cattle herds, faster animal movements, and increased interaction between livestock and wildlife would make containment much more complex and costly.
During a recent webinar hosted by the Swine Health Information Center and the American Association of Swine Veterinarians, Simmons emphasized the importance of biosecurity and preventive measures. She commended U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins for suspending live animal imports from the southern border as of May 11.
The screwworm fly poses the greatest risk to outdoor-reared pigs and feral swine, which are harder to monitor and protect. Producers are advised to watch for wounds infested with larvae and take immediate action to contain any outbreaks.
With growing concern, U.S. livestock industries are urged to remain vigilant and proactive in preventing a resurgence of this dangerous pest.
Photo Credit: usda
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