Posted: Thursday, May 8, 2025. 6:09 pm CST.
Photo Credit: BAHA
By Rubén Morales Iglesias: The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise (MAFSE) have revised their approach to controlling New World Screwworm (NWS) after confirming 70 cases across multiple districts as of Saturday, May 3, 2025. With more than half of the country now affected, authorities have lifted the 90-day quarantine requirement within infected areas but are enforcing strict movement controls to curb further spread.
Infested and non-infested zones
The regions confirmed as NWS-infested include Toledo, Stann Creek, Cayo, and the Belize District up to Sandhill Village, extending east to the Caribbean Sea and west to the Orange Walk District border, BAHA said.
While movement within these areas is no longer subject to quarantine, any movement into non-infested zones—Corozal, Orange Walk, and areas north of Sandhill—requires strict treatment protocols. Livestock owners must treat animals with Ivermectin before inspection, while horses may be treated with Doramectin before obtaining NWS Health Inspection Certificates and Movement Permits.
Precautionary measures
Authorities urge livestock farmers and pet owners to remain vigilant as cases continue to rise, particularly among backyard animals and pets. To prevent the spread of screwworm infestations, BAHA advises:
- Regularly inspect and treat wounds on animals using approved larvicides.
- Immediately report all cases of myiasis (larval infestation in wounds) to BAHA, MAFSE, or a veterinarian.
- Declare all animals upon arrival at Animal Movement Control Points in Sandhill, Bullet Tree Falls, and Jalacte.
- Move livestock only during daylight hours to facilitate monitoring.
- Import animals only with BAHA authorization at official entry points.
Enforcement and penalties
Authorities warn that violating Statutory Instrument 143 of 2024 could result in a fine of up to $5,000 BZD or imprisonment for up to three years.
Suspected screwworm cases can be reported to BAHA Animal Health Department at 302-1388 (Orange Walk), 824-4872 (Central Farm), or via WhatsApp at 670-7003.
Containment efforts continue
BAHA and MAFSE stress that early detection, timely treatment, and controlled movement of animals remain the best strategies for preventing further outbreaks. While the 90-day quarantine requirement is no longer in effect, movement restrictions will be strictly enforced to protect non-infested areas.
Authorities continue to monitor the spread of NWS closely, adjusting protocols as necessary to safeguard Belize’s livestock and agricultural health.
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The post Belize adjusts New World Screwworm control measures after 70 cases confirmed appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Thursday, May 8, 2025. 6:09 pm CST. Photo Credit: BAHA By Rubén Morales Iglesias: The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food
The post Belize adjusts New World Screwworm control measures after 70 cases confirmed appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
