By Zoila Palma: Texas authorities have confirmed a second case of New World screwworm in Zavala County, just days after the parasite was first detected in the state, San Antonio Current reports.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced Friday that the latest case was found in a one-month-old calf located approximately 5.6 miles from the first infected animal discovered earlier this week. In response, USDA has deployed mobile response teams and increased surveillance efforts in the area.
The confirmation came shortly after Texas Governor Greg Abbott expanded a statewide disaster declaration to address the growing threat. The order authorizes the use of all available state resources, including personnel from university systems, to support efforts aimed at containing the pest. State agencies have also been directed to assist in accelerating the construction of a sterile fly production facility in South Texas and the shipment of sterile flies into the state.
Officials say the sterile flies are a critical tool in combating the parasite because they interrupt the screwworm’s reproductive cycle. Abbott warned that the pest is likely to spread during the summer months and stressed the need to complete the new facility ahead of schedule.
Resources are currently being concentrated in Zavala County and neighboring Uvalde County, while USDA has established a 20-kilometer infested zone where animal movement is restricted unless inspections are completed.
The first confirmed U.S. case involved a three-week-old calf near La Pryor in Zavala County. Authorities reported that the infected animal was recovering well and inspections of the herd found no additional cases.
USDA officials noted that screwworm infestations do not affect meat, fruits, or vegetables and therefore are not expected to cause immediate disruptions to the food supply. However, the agency estimates a widespread outbreak could cost Texas as much as $1.8 billion and potentially drive beef prices higher nationwide.
New World screwworm larvae feed on the living tissue of animals, causing severe wounds that can lead to illness or death. Cattle are particularly vulnerable due to their size and inability to protect open wounds. Agricultural leaders and ranchers have urged livestock producers to remain vigilant, while some local officials have criticized what they describe as limited communication regarding the parasite’s spread near the Texas-Mexico border.
The post International News: Second New World Screwworm case confirmed in Texas as state expands Emergency response appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: Texas authorities have confirmed a second case of New World screwworm in Zavala County, just days after the parasite was first detected in the state, San Antonio Current reports. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced Friday that the latest case was found in a one-month-old calf located approximately 5.6 miles from the
The post International News: Second New World Screwworm case confirmed in Texas as state expands Emergency response appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.